Issue 057 December 2015 the Destination Magazine™

the Issue 57 Regional Events & Destinations

Beech Mountain Resort Elevates Your Experience Page 16

Make It More Than Just Buying A Tree Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes For Food And Fun This Winter, Try Banner Elk First Footin’ At Rural Hill Holidays Sparkle In Signature Events Across North Carolina

We Tell You Where To Go! theDestinationMag.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

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December 2015 Issue 57

the

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e Te l l y o u w h e r e t o g o !

Whether you are a long time resident or new to the area, you’ll find regional events and destinations in the Destination Magazine™ that will have you saying “I never knew that was there.”

The Destination Magazine™ is not a historical document, we don’t write about spectacular events you’ve missed. If you desire new destinations to explore on your own, or ideas for things to do with friends and family you will find someplace new to experience each month in your destination magazine.

We know we are on to something!

Lisa & Andy Jay Publishers Published by: Photodude.net Marketing Manager: Lisa Jay Sales: Jin Williams Contributing Writers: Lisa Jay, Jim Stallard, Project 543, Visit NC, Craig Distl Contributing Photographers: Bill Russ, PhotodudeART.com, Paul Newton The list of events in this publication is compiled from various sources dates & times are tentative & subject to change. the Destination Magazine™ is published by Photodude.net LLC 369 Dovefield Drive Summerfield, NC 27358 (704) 706-2365 www.theDestinationMag. com ©2015 All rights reserved. Photodude.net LLC Publisher, Agents & Advertisers do not necessarily condone any activities or advertisement listed in this magazine. The Publisher and its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and sponsors are not responsible for any loss or damage which might be associated with patronage of any party named in this publication, and is not responsible for any Act of God such as inclement weather, fire, flood, natural or man-made disaster, etc., that are out of the control of the Publisher, which affect the publishing of this magazine.

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CONTENTS DayTrip Destinations

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Beech Mountain Resort Elevates Your Experience 16 Make It More Than Just Buying A Tree

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For Food And Fun This Winter, Try Banner Elk

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Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

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First Footin’ At Rural Hill

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Holidays Sparkle In Signature Events Across North Carolina

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We Tell You Where To Go! Regional Events & Destinations

WI N T E R I S E R E H R E T BET

Great restaurants, cozy lodging, romantic getaways and family fun.

BannerElk.com • 844-824-6777

Destinations

DayTrip Destinations Christmas Wonderland of Lights Nov 25th – Jan 2nd 2016. Zootastic Park, 448 Pilch Rd, Troutman, NC 28166. The Christmas Wonderland of Lights features over 3.5 Million Lights over a 2 mile drive-through and ends with a light show set to music in our Western Town. We also have Santa Claus joining us ever y evening, pony rides, petting zoos, concessions, roasting pits for marshmallows, and much more. www.zootasticpark.com Island of Lights Festival Nov 27th – Jan 1st 2016. Carolina Beach Ave N, Carolina Beach, NC 28428.

The island comes alive with holiday spirit starting with the Lighting of the Lake celebration the day after Thanksgiving and continuing with a Christmas Parade, Flotilla and more, ending the season with a bang at the New Year’s Eve lighted beach ball drop and fireworks show! This island-wide holiday festival also features nightly lighted displays around Carolina Beach Lake, along with businesses and homes

decked out in their seasonal best. Enjoy the twinkling lights and holly jolly holidays done coastal-style in Carolina Beach. www.visitcarolinabeachnc.com Christmas at Körner’s Folly Fri Nov 27th – Jan 2nd 2016. 413 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284.

For over a centur y, this unique home has been an enchanting holiday destination. Adorned with period decorations, tours transport you to Jule Kör ner ’s world of Victorian extravagance.

K ö r n e r ’ s Fo l l y i s t r a n s f o r m e d in the holidays with floor-to ceiling garland, lights, and Christmas trees in nearly ever y room. The theme for this year is “ Victorian Christmas Carols: Music & Merriment.” Tours and special events promise visitors of all ages holiday cheer and an unforgettable experience! Early closings on Christmas Eve and New Year ’s Eve, 10am – 2pm.

Closed Christmas Day and New Year ’s Day. www.kornersfolly.org

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cupcakes, pies, custom cakes coffee, teas, lattes free wifi & comfy seating 19905 W. Catawba Ave. Cornelius, NC 28031

704-439-0996 MaddysFattys.com 6

Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort Nov 27th – Jan 31st 2016.

500 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. A holiday tradition in Blowing Rock, Chetola’s Festival of Lights features a dazzling display of illuminations attracting thousands of visitors each year.

A drive around Chetola Lake lets visitors see glittering ice skaters, a nativity scene, Rudolph catching a “big fish” in Chetola Lake, and much more. As visitors enter the resort they are given a guide that details displays and activities taking place throughout the holiday season. www.chetola.com

Winter Wine Passport! Nov 27th – Apr 3rd 2016. Surr y Wineries Ya d k i n Va l l e y N C . B y p o p u l a r demand, the 6th Annual Winter W i n e Pa s s p o r t ( a k a D e c k t h e Halls) Event in the Surr y County area begins November 27th and goes thr u April 3, 2016. Along w i t h a W i n t e r W i n e Pa s s p o r t entitling the holder to a free wine/ beer tasting at 10 Surr y wineries/ Brewer y and a unique 2015 keepsake, there are also special discounts and offers available during the passport period from local lodgings, restaurants and retail shops. Passports are available while supplies last at www.surr ywineries.com and at participating wineries.

Continued On Page 8

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Destinations Continued From Page 7

High Country Choose and Cut Nov 28th – Dec 24th Visitor Information Center, 1700 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone, NC 28607. Start a new family tradition! Visit one of our area Christmas tree far ms, choose a tree, and the farmer will cut it, bale it and tie it to your car. Many area farms also offer hot cocoa, hayrides, gift shops, live music and more. www.highcountr yhost.com C h r i s t m a s Tr e e V i l l a g e – Christmas in Davidson Thurs Dec 3rd – Sat 5th 6pm – 9pm Davidson, NC. Those visiting the Christmas Tree Village can to vote on the tree or trees they like most. Each vote cost a dollar. Visitors to the village may cast as many votes as they wish for as many trees as they like.

Take a ride on the trolley, stroll down beautiful and picturesque Main Street, start your holiday shopping early at the many wonderful and unique specialty shops, take a journey through the Holiday Village of vendors on the Village Green and enjoy enter­ tainment on the librar y Stage. www.christmasindavidson.com

O l d e M e c k l e n b u r g B r e w e r y ’s Weihnachtsmarkt Fri Dec 4th – Sat 5th Olde Mecklenburg Brewer y, 4150 Yancey Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217. The Olde Mecklenburg B r e w e r y ’ s We i h n a c h t s m a r k t returns to the Biergarten this D e c e m b e r ! We i h n a c h t s m a r k t is our version of a traditional, German-inspired “Christmas Market” with more than 20 open-air booths selling gifts and baked goods from local vendors.

Our Winter seasonal beers – Dunkel, Bauern Bock, and Yule Bock – will all be on tap, along with our homemade Glühwein: a delicious, spiced red wine ser ved hot and fresh. On December 3, we will have our annual tree lighting to start the festivities off right. Weihnachtsmarkt will then run for three weekends this year (Dec. 4-5; 11-12; 18-19). OMB is the place to gather with friends, drink fresh beer, shop local gifts, and celebrate the holiday season. www.oldemeckbrew.com The Polar Express Train Ride Fri Dec 4th – Sun 6th 411 S. Salisbury A v e . S p e n c e r, N C 2 8 1 5 9 . “A l l Aboard” The Polar Express at the

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations NC Transportation Museum. Set to the music of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies ser ved on board the train. Passengers will then enjoy singing, dancing, and a reading of The Polar Express. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa will present the first gift of Christmas. On the return trip, ever yone will receive their own silver sleigh bell, heard by all those who believe!

Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas. www.nctrans.org

Santa on the Chimney 11am – 2pm Sat Dec 5th 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Witness Santa’s daring stunt as he practices on one of the world’s largest chimneys with multiple 200-foot rappels!

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities, plus meet live critters. This rappelling Santa was recently ranked as one of the “8 Most Extreme Santa’s i n t h e Wo r l d ” b y B u z z f e e d . www.chimneyrockpark.com Banner Elk Christmas in the Park Sat Dec 5th 210 Park Ave, Banner Elk, NC 28604. Enjoy a heart-war ming day of holiday magic in the walkabout mountain Continued On Page 9

Taproom Hours Thu & Fri: 4-10 Sat: 2-10 Sun: 12-8

The Bayne Brewing Company is a family-owned nano brewery based out of Cornelius, NC. Our flavors range from the traditional to the unique, and each beer is brewed with only the highest quality ingredients.

Visit our taproom!

19507 W Catawba Ave Cornelius NC | Baynebrew.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Destinations

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village of Banner Elk. Events include: ornament making, cookie decorating, holiday movie, parade of lights, Christmas market, stor ytelling, train rides and lighting of the tree at dusk. www.bannerelk.com 9th Annual Reindeer Fun Run Sat Dec 5th 7am – 12pm 100 E Main St, Aberdeen, NC 28315.

The Annual Reindeer Fun Run is a fun community event for ever yone from serious runners to recreational walkers, families, and pets. Join in the holiday cheer with the 5K Reindeer Fu n Ru n / Wa l k , 1 2 K C h r i s t m a s Run and Kids Egg Nog Jog. www.reindeerfunrun.com Christmas / Holiday Market Sat Dec 5th 9am – 2pm L exington Farmer ’s Market, 29 S Railroad St, L exington, NC 27292. Bring your Christmas wish list and visit with Santa at the Lexington Farmers Market in the Historic Southern Rail and Freight Depot.

While you are there get your Holiday party vegetables, baked goods and meats. This special Holiday Market will feature

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crafts from local vendors as well as locally grown tur nips, greens, broccoli, sweet potatoes, collards, spinach, cabbage, apples, gourds, mushrooms, and eggs. Delicious breads, cakes, pies, rolls, jams, jellies and more will be available to help make your holiday parties a hit. Look for holiday gifts and decorations like NC Christmas trees and wreaths and other seasonal plants. For more infor mation. www.visitlexingtonnc.com Christmas Open House at The Bob Timberlake Gallery & Museum Sat Dec 5th 9am – 5pm 1714 E Center St Ext, Lexington, NC 27292.

Come early for a visit, you’ll catch the holiday spirit. Stroll around the galler y, shop for artwork or clothing, take time to sit by the fire with something warm from the River wood Coffee Shop and stay to meet Bob from 1-4pm when he’ll be available to meet folks and autograph items. Event i s f r e e ! Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n call 336-224-4428 or visit www.BobTimberlake.com

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations Holiday Art Walk and Open House Sat Dec 5th 10am – 5pm N Main St, Mt Air y, NC 27030. More than 60 artists in downtown stores and venues, plus Christmas caroling, face-painting, art demonstrations, visits with Santa Claus, special sales, and much more! Artists will demonstrate their crafts with painting, print making, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and much more!

The Holiday Art Walk will take place all day with the “Meet the Artists Reception” from 6 to 9pm. www.mountair ydowntown.org Vineyards of Swan Creek Holiday Open House Sat Dec 5th 12pm – 5pm 450 Groce Rd, Ronda, NC 28670. Join each of the Vineyards

of Swan Creek as we celebrate the holiday season! Throughout the weekend at Raffaldini Vineyards enjoy a complimentar y sample of our holiday Pepper mint Chocolate Wine-infused Brownie and mulled apple cider. Many gifts ideas available for your holiday shopping convenience.

Fo r a m a p o f p a r t i c i p a t i n g vineyards and directions, please visit our website. www.swancreekvineyards.com Candlelight Christmas Sat Dec 5th 6pm – 9pm Historic L atta Plantation, 5225 Sample Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. Enjoy a beautiful stroll among the candlelit property and buildings that make up L atta Plantation.

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Destinations

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Ta k e a p e e k i n s i d e t h e h o m e to see first-person dressed interpreters as they theatrically celebrate Nancy Latta’s holiday wedding. Enjoy caroling and an 1800’s inspired Live Nativity Scene. This unique and timeless event is one the entire family is sure to enjoy! Admission: $8 Adults, $7 Seniors/Students, F R E E f o r c h i l d r e n 5 & u n d e r. www.lattaplantation.org Christmas Open House Sun Dec 6th 11am – 4pm Poplar Grove Plantation, 10200 US Hwy 17 N, Wilmington, NC. The annual Christmas Open House at Poplar Grove Plantation is a charming getaway to old fashioned holiday spirit. Take a self- guided tour of the beautifully decorated manor house, shop the Holiday Craft Fair, visit with Santa or take a musical Christmas hayride. A f ter wards warm up with hot cocoa and cookies. www.poplargrove.org Cherokee Lights & Legends Christmas Thu-Fri-Sat Dec 10th – Jan 2nd 2016. This special Christmas event invites your family to stroll under the lights

through fun, interactive displays that tell ancient Cherokee Christmas legends. And that’s just for starters. You can also see the lighting of our 40-ft. Christmas tree, have a visit with Santa, and take a spin on our synthetic ice rink. Your family will also find a bonfire with Cherokee stor ytelling, two bouncy houses, a 9-hole mini-golf course, face painting, balloon animals, the opportunity to create a Par-T-Pet (similar to a Build-a-Bear®), and free cotton candy and popcorn.

Also, make plans to join us for our New Year ’s Eve fireworks show, scheduled for Thursday, December 31 at 9pm. Grab your little elves and join us. – See more a t w w w. v i s i t c h e r o k e e n c . c o m Closed December 24–26 Sneads Ferry Winterfest Sat Dec 1 2 t h – S u n 1 3 t h 1 2 6 Pa r k L n , Sneads Ferr y, NC 28460. Kick off the Holidays with local talent performing holiday songs and the lighting of the trees. Then the next morning join Santa for Breakfast and shop for your holiday gifts at our Craft Show. Santa will be available all day to hear children’s

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Regional Events & Destinations

Destinations r e q u e s t s a n d a c c e p t l e t t e r s . through the woods, jingle all the www.sneadsferr ywinterfest.org way to four Unique & Boutique wineries! We’ll be decked out Winter on the Western Frontier for the holiday ’s and pairing up at Fort Dobbs State Historic Site lite bites to go with your tastings.

Sat Dec 12th 9am – 5pm 438 Fort Visit the wineries in any order, Dobbs Rd, Statesville, NC 28625. receive one commemorative glass Set on an open hilltop, the mili- and a hop card at the 1st winer y. tar y post at Ft. Dobbs was a cold, T h e n s i p i n c l u d e d t a s t i n g s a s lonely place to spend the winter. you collect a stamp at all four.

Learn how 18th century provincial www.southcreekwiner y.com soldiers stationed here dealt with the harsh season. Musket and Appalachian Ski Mountain’s New cannon firing demonstrations will Year’s Celebration Thu Dec 31st be featured as well as ongoing Appalachian Ski Mountain, 940 displays of camp life and cooking. Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, www.fortdobbs.org NC 28605. Torchlight skiing and fireworks! Breakfast selections Jingle Bell Wine Hop Sun Dec s e r v e d i n t h e r e s t a u r a n t , 1 3 t h 2 2 4 0 S C r e e k R d , N e b o , moonlight ice skating, and family N C 2 8 7 6 1 . O v e r t h e r i v e r a n d fun! www.appskimtn.com Continued On Page 30

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Visit Lexington

for the holidays Dec. 3-6, 10-13, 17-22, 26,27: Annual Country Christmas Train Dec. 5: Holiday Market Dec. 5: Open House at Timberlake Gallery Dec. 7: Lexington Christmas Parade Dec. 14: The Old-Time Square Dance

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www.visitlexingtonnc.com Regional Events & Destinations

Ballantyne 704.752.7284 Charlotte 704.527.5783 Mooresville 704.799.2881 Huntersville 704.237.4387 Uptown 980.939.1166

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“THE MUSEUM THAT RUNS” Thank you for a great 2015

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Maggie Valley, NC

Wheels Through Time Museum

62 Vintage Lane, Maggie Valley North Carolina 28751

(828) 926-6266

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Beech Mountain Resort Elevates Your Experience

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eech Mountain Resort’s 201516 winter season will feature a new activity as the resort has constructed a state-of-the-art snowtubing park.

“People can be in the village enjoying the coffee shop or brewery or ice skating or eating at the Beech Tree, and tubing is right there,” Costin says. “It ties together the overall package.”

The lighted park sits adjacent to the ice skating rink in the resort Three high-tech SMI Super village and features long runs with PoleCat snow guns have been sweeping views of the Blue Ridge installed at the tubing park as part Mountains. of a overall augmentation of the snowmaking capacity at Beech “The catalyst for the park was a Mountain Resort. desire to add more amenities for our guests,” says resort general manager Eleven more high-tech guns Ryan Costin. “People of all ages and have been added in key places on skill levels enjoy tubing. It’s a good the slopes, especially on White family activity as well.”

Lightning, a black diamond run with the steepest terrain on the mountain.

The tubing park, which will be open daily and nightly, adds to the “We continue to dramatically overall experience in the village at i m p r o v e o u r s n o w m a k i n g the base of the slopes. Guests are capability,” says Costin. “The 14 new not required to have a lift ticket to SMI Super PoleCats bring our total to snowtube. Sessions begin every two 61, plus dozens of smaller guns. We hours at a rate of $25 weekdays and can make a good amount of snow $30 weekends/holidays. quickly.”

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Regional Events & Destinations

Skiers and snowboarders who visit Beech Mountain Resort this winter will also notice a thorough renovation of the Beech Tree Bar & Grille. The Beech Tree, which opened in 1967, is one of the main gathering places at the resort and one of the last to be renovated.

The two main chairlifts received new electrical systems and mechanical upgrades, while an entirely new rental fleet of Burton snowboards was added.

It’s been nice to complete projects over the last few years that are focal points for people upgrades, we hope people will when they get to the mountain,” be even more impressed with the Costin explains. “Last year was product this year.” a strong year for skiing across the board in North Carolina and For more info, visit: definitely at Beech Mountain. And www.beechmountainresort.com or call (800) 438-2093. with all the improvements and

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Make It More Than Just “Everything from Buying A Tree handmade crafts and

C

hristmas is just weeks away.

This year, instead of pulling out an artificial tree from the attic, why not buy a real Christmas tree. It will fill your house with a wonderful aroma, and give your home a truly festive feel.

hot chocolate to Santa sightings and sleigh rides. More importantly, choose-and-cut farms offer a lasting family memory you’ll cherish for years to come.”

You can find Christmas trees at big box stores and tree lots across the state. However, for an authentic Christmas experience, nothing compares to piling the kids in the car, driving to a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm, and selecting a beautiful tree to take home with you.

offer a lasting family memory you’ll cherish for years to come.

The tree is the reason to go, but you’ll also find that many farms now offer additional holiday experiences for your family to enjoy. Everything from handmade crafts and hot chocolate to Santa sightings and sleigh rides. More importantly, choose-and-cut farms

There are more than 100 choose-and-cut farms across the state, and the majority are just a short drive from Charlotte. Most of the farms are located in the mountains, but you also can find Christmas tree farms across the Piedmont, and even near the coast.

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Finding a local Christmas tree farm is easy in the Tar Heel State.

North Carolina is the second-largest producer of Christmas trees in the nation, and supplies a fifth of all U.S. Christmas trees.

Regional Events & Destinations

For a complete listing, visit N C Fa r m F r e s h . c o m , Yo u c a n get directions, look up hours of operations and find contact information for each farm. It’s always a good rule of thumb to call before you go to find out about special events happening at the farm.

Once you get your tree home, you should be able to enjoy it for up to two months with proper attention. The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers the following tips to care for your real Christmas tree this holiday season: • If you can’t set up your tree immediately, put it in a bucket of water in a cool, shady place.

• Cut off a half inch from the base of the tree before placing it in a stand.

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• Use a stand that will hold at least a gallon of water.

• Check the water levels often. A tree may take up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours, and a quart per day after that.

• If your tree stops drinking water, it is most likely because sap has built up around the trunk. To correct this, drain the water in the stand and pour very hot, boiling water in the stand. It will remove the sap build up and allow the tree to begin drinking water.

• Place tree away from heat sources, such as heating vents, fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators and sunny windows.

• Check lights and cords for broken bulbs and frayed wiring.

• Do not overload electrical circuits.

• Turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed.

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Regional Events & Destinations

For Food And Fun This Winter, Try Banner Elk

W

hen it comes time to choose a winter destination in the North Carolina mountains, Banner Elk just might be the ideal spot. It’s a welcoming place with small-town charm and big city amenities.

are more than a dozen popular restaurants within this town of just 1,067 residents. Culinary choices range from contemporar y to traditional, with everything from white tablecloth fine dining to tasty Southern comfort food. Ethnic cuisine runs the gamut from Italian The two largest winter sports to Cajun to Mexican to Vietnamese. venues in the South – Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar There are also three wineries Mountain Resort – are located (Banner Elk Winery, Grandfather within 15 minutes of Banner Elk’s Winery and Linville Falls Winery) lone stoplight. Both resorts offers in the area, along with three craft skiing, snowboarding, ice skating breweries (Beech Mountain Brewing and snowtubing. There’s even a free Co., Blind Squirrel and Flat Top youth sledding hill in the town of Brewing Co.) Beech Mountain.

Shopping is another popular About 30 minutes away are more option, with plenty of boutiques snowsports options at Hawksnest and shops in the Banner Elk village snowtubing park and Appalachian center, as well as nearby in Valle Ski Mtn. And for travelers who like Crucis, Boone and Blowing Rock. the mountains but not the snow, there’s always winter hiking and the Lodging choices are plentiful, famous Mile High Swinging Bridge at too, with a variety of offerings from nearby Grandfather Mountain. standard hotel rooms to cozy cabins to larger vacation homes.

When the sun goes down, To find out why folks in Banner Banner Elk’s reputation as a foodie Elk say “Winter is better hotspot takes center stage. There here,” call (844) 824-6777, or visit: www.BannerElk.com.

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Regional Events & Destinations

Grandfather Mountain Offers ‘Secret Season’ Passes

T

he turn of the calendar signals a new season on Grandfather Mountain — and the return of a bargain allowing unlimited access to the park for six months.

the colder months,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and communications. “Rime ice coats the Mile High Swinging Bridge, the otters frolic in their frozen pond, and the mountain itself seems The Secret Season Pass allows exceptionally peaceful.” passholders unlimited access to the mountain Nov. 1 through April 30, The Secret Season passes are 2016, for $32 (plus tax) for adults now available at the Grandfather — less than the price of two regular Mountain Entrance Gate and are tickets. A child’s Secret Season pass valid through April 30, 2016. (ages 4 to 12) is $18 plus tax.

Grandfather Mountain is open A group pass, good for up to six from 9am to 5pm every day in winter people traveling in the same vehicle, except Thanksgiving and Christmas, sells for $90 plus tax and pays for weather permitting. Park opening itself on the first visit. is delayed until all roads and paths can be cleared of snow and ice, but T h e p a s s a l l o w s g u e s t s t o a phone call to the entrance gate at e x p e r i e n c e t h e w o n d e r s o f (828) 733-4337 can confirm the day’s Grandfather Mountain without the conditions and set the stage for a bustle of spring, summer and fall. memorable outing.

Whether your interest is snapping shots of snow-dusted evergreens, The not-for-profit Grandfather sipping soup from Mildred’s Grill or Mountain Stewardship Foundajust savoring the solitude, the Secret tion strives to inspire conservation Season Pass is the most affordable of the natural world by helping guests explore, understand and way to do it.

“Grandfather Mountain becomes a veritable winter wonderland during

value the wonders of Grandfather Mountain. For information, visit www.grandfather.com

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Tour The Largest Hand-Made Cookie Company In The World

I

f you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll want to take a bite of one of Mrs. Hanes HandMade Moravian Cookies. What started as a seasonal business for the family has grown into a mail- order mecca based out of Clemmons, near Winston-Salem.

T h e m e t h o d , h o w e v e r, h a s remained the same. Ever y cookie is rolled, cut and packed by hand to keep the high-quality taste for these “lighter than air ” treats.

The business has over 50,000 customers in the United States, Our cookies are made from an old family recipe that has been handed down for generations.

Each cookie is rolled and cut by hand, the same way it was made a century ago. Then flavor is literally rolled into the cookies.

We make six delicious flavors: Ginger, Sugar, Lemon, Chocolate, Butterscotch, and Black Walnut.

Every cookie is hand-made.

Every tin is hand packed. Every shipment is hand-boxed.

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as well as 30 other countries worldwide, and continues to grow every year. Stop in and take a tour of the baker y for a peek into the making of these old-fashioned delights. These cookies aren’t your grandma’s, but they might be just as good.

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places.

Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

Regional Events & Destinations

548 PRESBYTERIAN ROAD ~ MOORESVILLE, NC 28115 704 237 4836 WWW.MANMADELEGENDS.COM

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First Footin’ At Rural Hill

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njoy the holiday’s pleasures a little too much? Stuffed to the gills from all those parties?

Determined that this is the year to make a change for the better? Why not come out to Rural Hill and start 2016 off right with First Footin’ our annual walk and celebration of Hogmanay, or Scottish New Years?

Year was a young man; presumably tall, handsome, healthy, dark haired, dark eyed, and bearing gifts (such as a lump of coal for the fire.) Today it does no harm if the first footer carries a bottle of his best and favorite beverage to offer his host a drink and a toast, stating “Lang may your lum reek.” This traditional Scottish salutation wishes its recipient long The Tradition life and prosperity. It literally means Fo l l o w i n g t h e P r o t e s t a n t “long may your chimney smoke.”

Reformation in Scotland in the latter half of the sixteenth century, it was Several towns throughout the considered irreverent to celebrate hillsides of Scotland continue an dates of religious importance. Thus, age old annual ritual of walking the merriment and celebrations were town limits to restate or reclaim the reserved for Hogmanay (pronounced boundaries of the township.

Hog-muh-nay,) this important part of the year combined both New Year’s These traditions have been Eve and New Year ’s Day with a adopted as part of the Rural Hill celebration of good will and good Hogmanay (Scottish New Year) fortune. The use of the term “first c e l e b r a t i o n , k n o w n s i m p l y a s footin’,” according to legend, is as “First Footin’”. Traditionally, the follows: fulfillments of Hogmanay’s rituals and folklore have assured good Fortune would smile on the crops, good health, and good fortune household if the first person to set in the coming year. foot in the doorway on the New

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A place where neighbors can EAT, MEET & DRINK Full Menu to 2am Fri • Sat • Sun

The Walk

Wear good walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the season.

This will be a vigorous walk around the farm’s 2.25 mile trail, event, and historic sites, stopping along the way to discuss history and folklore.

If you do not think you are physically able to do the walk, please come anyway. It’s a great time for fellowship at the Rural Retreat Cabin Site, which will be open for this occasion.

This event is FREE and open all, but we do encourage everyone to bring something for the luncheon.

(Remember, its bad luck to show up empty handed) Schedule 10:00 – First Footin’ Five Miler Trail Run begins 11:00 – Step off for the First Footin’ Walk around the farm grounds 12:00 – Stone Soup Blessing and Gathering Historic Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078 www.ruralhill.net

M O N D A Y

$2 Tacos (All Day & Night), Coronas, Margaritas

T U E S D A Y

Half Price Wine • Bottle or Glass

W E D N E S D A Y

T H U R S D A Y

$3 Well Drinks • $3.50 NC Drafts Half Price Wings Every Wednesday 5pm – 10pm!

$3.50 Drafts

F R I D A Y

$6 Vodka Redbulls & Jack Daniels

S A T U R D A Y

SATURDAY MAY 16TH

$6 Crown Royal

S U N D A Y

$3 Bloody Mary Bar $2 Mimosas • $4 Double Mimosas

704•892•4433

8301-1 Magnolia Estates Drive Cornelius, NC 28031

Fri-Sun 11:00am-2:00am Mon-Thurs11:00am-12:00am

theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Regional Events & Destinations

Holidays Sparkle In Signature Events Across North Carolina

I

t’s begins to look a lot like Christmas – and more – as numerous attractions, venues and destinations throughout North Carolina embark on their signature holiday events. Historic mansions are decorated, gardens are transfor med into seasonal wonderlands, museums offer yuletide tales and festive food takes over menus. So, you’ll find ever ything from Santa on the Chimney to picture-perfect destinations throughout the state.

Mountains

Christmas at Biltmore Nov. 6, 2015 – Jan. 10, 2016, Asheville America’s largest home has a larger-than-life tradition that involves 100 decorated Christmas trees; hundreds of wreaths, bows and poinsettias; thousands of lights; and more than 25,000 ornaments.

The grandeur reaches a crescendo in the seven-story-high Banquet Hall, where books, dolls and other toys hang from a 35-foot Fraser fir. Catch the glow of the 250-room mansion by candlelight through Jan. 3.

National Gingerbread House Competition Nov. 18, 2015 – Jan. 3, 2016, T h e O m n i G r o v e Pa r k I n n i n Asheville Sugar and spices lay the foundation for the competition, and craftsmanship sets it apart.

Arrayed in a Blue Ridge Mountain inn with mar vels of its own, the edible architecture attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.

Even without the gingerbread, the roaring fires, splendid décor and music raise holiday spirits. Entries are also displayed downtown at the Grove Arcade.

Santa on the Chimney Dec. 5 and 12, 2015, Chimney Rock State Park. How could Santa resist a 315-foot granite monolith shaped like a chimney? For the 22nd year, the man in red will warm up for his Christmas Eve chimney-thon by rappelling down this iconic natural landmark. Visitors can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, see critters, and enjoy live music, hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities. In 2013, BuzzFeed included this rappelling Continued On Page 30

El Toro Mexican Grill & Bar

Real authentic Mexican food.

Located at Shops On The Green 20930 Torrence Chapel Rd Cornelius, NC 28031•704-997-2534

www.EltoroMexicanGrillandBar.com theDestinationMag.com 704-706-2365

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Destinations Continued From Page 13

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Harvest Grill Shelton Vineyards Thu Dec 31st 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017. Dress to impress and celebrate New Year’s in style at Shelton Vineyards.

Enjoy the special menu Chef Paul has prepared for the evening and then head over to Hampton I n n t o d a n c e t h e n i g h t a w a y. www.sheltonvineyards.com 17th Annual Mt. Olive’s New Year Pickle Drop Thu Dec 31st 5:30pm – 7:30pm Corner of Cucumber & Vine, Mt Olive, NC 28365. The New Year ’s Eve Pickle descends the flagpole at the stroke of 7pm “midnight” – that’s 7 o’clock EST, which also happens to be midnight Greenwich Mean Time.

(That way, we are official, we shout Happy New Year! – and we don’t have to stay up until midnight!) Great family fun with live music and free refreshments, including Mt. Olive pickles! www.mtolivepickles.com

Lake Lure Beach, 2930 Memorial H w y, L a k e L u r e , N C 2 8 7 4 6 .

Reenergize for the New Year at the L ake Lure New Year ’s Day Polar Plunge held on Januar y 1st at noon each year. This year, we are back at the beach to make an even bigger splash. There will be a costume contest, cash prizes, hot chocolate, games, and plenty of cold water. The cost of the Plunge is $20 and includes your Plunge Permit, the ver y popular Po l a r P l u n g e B e a n i e t o k e e p you warm and plenty of fun. www.hickor ynutchamber.org

First Footin’ At Rural Hill 2016 Fr i J a n 1 s t 1 0 a m - 2 p m Ru r a l Hill, 4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078. Enjoy the holiday ’s pleasures a little too much?

Stuffed to the gills from all those parties? Determined that this is the year to make a change for the better? Why not come out to Rural Hill and start 2016 off right with First Footin’ our annual walk and celebration of Lake Lure New Year’s Day Polar Hogmanay, or Scottish New Years?

Plunge Fri Jan 1st 10:30am – 1pm www.ruralhill.net Signature Events Continued From Page 29

Santa in its list of eight most extreme (6-foot tree, 500 lights) to dazzling Santas in the world.

(90-foot tree, 5,000 lights), the displays blaze a trail to the heart Piedmont of town, where trees ring the Christmas Town USA lake and reflect their colors. With Dec. 1 – 26, 2015, McAdenville In about 600,000 visitors traveling this mill town west of Charlotte, the two-mile route, be prepared to the 375 Christmas trees on view relax and enjoy a very slow ride, outnumber the households in a especially on weekends. Also, celebration that started in 1956 the annual Christmas Town 5K with nine evergreens. From modest happens Nov. 28 at 6pm.

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