Around the Gorge: Cold Weather Fun

Bundle up and head to Chimney Rock Village December 4-5 for Christmas in the Village including a Friday night Chili Cook-off from 5-9 p.m.  Sample some of the best chili around, enjoy a cakewalk and Bingo at the Chimney Rock Fire Department, then head over to the Gathering Place to witness a spectacular Christmas tree lighting!

On Saturday, Dec 5. visit with Santa who will be handing out special stockings that children can take to downtown's stores to be filled with special treats! The whole family can enjoy strolling carolers, holiday lights, and festive good cheer in this picturesque mountain village. Chimney Rock shops offer hand-crafted gift items, and everything from fabulous clothing to antiques and garden art, making Christmas shopping easy and fun.

AT CHIMNEY ROCK  AT CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK

On Saturday December 5 and 12, watch Santa Claus ready himself for clambering down chimneys across the world as he practices climbing one of the most famous chimneys of all, Chimney Rock! Watch him scale the 315-foot Chimney Rock before climbing down millions of much shorter chimneys all around the world on Christmas Eve. USA Today named Chimney Rock one of the top 10 places to catch up with Santa. Come and see why!
 

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, complimentary hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities and see live critters. Annual Passholders are invited to a special holiday sale with 25% off their total retail purchase both days at Cliff Dwellers Gifts, which will be providing entertainment, artist demonstrations and refreshments. There is no additional cost with paid Park admission. 

Mr. Claus will rappel from the top of Chimney Rock about every 30-45 minutes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. while spectators gather in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts (parking area) for live holiday music, refreshments and kids’ activities. Santa will be available in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts for photo opportunities. Mrs. Claus will serve delicious cookies and hot cocoa. Park mascot Grady the Groundhog or other live critters will make an appearance, and an educational display of animal skins and skulls will be on display by a State Park Ranger.