The historic Grove Arcade in downtown Asheville is a magical place anytime of year. During the holiday season the elegant building comes alive even more with its annual Winter Wonderland.
This season’s Winter Wonderland continues daily through Jan. 4th. The Friday opening-night festivities from 5-8 p.m. include a Deck the Halls lighting celebration; a performance by the Asheville Symphony Chorus starting at 6 p.m.; decorating ornaments for children, benefiting MANNA’s backpack program; story time and take-your-own photos with Santa Claus; holiday cider and cookies; and, as always, local shopping and dining in the alluring Grove Arcade.
In addition to shopping and dining, ongoing holiday events at the Grove Arcade include return appearances by Santa Claus on Nov. 19 from 2-4 p.m., after the Asheville Holiday Parade, and from 1-5 p.m. on Dec. 4, 11 and 18; as well as a gingerbread house display beginning Nov. 22, in partnership with The Omni Grove Park Inn. It all adds up to a season of wonder in one of Asheville’s architectural gems.
“The Grove Arcade is a beautiful, historic building; when she puts on her holiday finery she becomes a sparkling jewel not to be missed,” says Ruth Summers, Grove Arcade executive director. “Our opening-night celebration of Winter Wonderland is designed for the entire family: music with the Symphony Chorus, the jolly old fellow, ornament decorating, cookies and cider and more.
“We hope people of all ages will make the Grove Arcade part of their Christmas and holiday tradition, as they come see us for this free, family-friendly event.”
For more information about Winter Wonderland and the Grove Arcade go to www.grovearcade.com or contact Ben Anderson at [email protected].