Simplify with a small-town holiday in the hills
Rediscover the simple wonders of the season in the West Virginia hills.
Step into the quaint charm of small-town in the mountains this season. Here are 7 tucked-away mountain destinations for good old-fashioned Americana holiday cheer:
1. Lewisburg & the Greenbrier Valley
The vibrant arts town of Lewisburg is alive on stage all season, with entertainment like the classic “A Christmas Carol” at Carnegie Hall, as well as choral and orchestral performances. Enjoy wintery scenes at the Alderson Depot’s train show.
The tree lighting at The Greenbrier kickstarts the resort’s own little winter wonderland of excitement, with visits from Santa, holiday craft workshops, gourmet coffee and fine wine tastings, Christmas movies, an elegant Christmas Eve Gingerbread Ball, and more fun for the whole family.
2. Elkins
Give your season an old-fashioned touch in Elkins with train rides and classic variety shows!
The Gandy Dancer Theater’s Mountain Memories Christmas Dinner Show will sparkle on stage with bright costumes and humor.
The kids can hop aboard the Polar Express during their seasonal run to the North Pole, and the adults can dress in their finest for the Winter Gala.
3. Moundsville
Head to the old farmstead for holiday treats from a bygone era. Costumed interpreters will lead you through holiday setups from 1860, 1890 and 1925 for Cockayne Christmas & Cookies. You’ll get to taste a sweet baked good from each era.
Afterward, enjoy a unique spin on “A Christmas Carol” at Strand Theatre, or take your tackiest winter attire to the Ugly Sweater Fun Run/Walk.
4. Shepherdstown
Every weekend brings new excitement in Shepherdstown! Historic homes will open their doors to holiday visitors, while downtown will be jolly full of winter performances, carriage rides, caroling, chestnut roasting and more. Performances range from tuba concerts to dramatic poetry readings, and ballet to burlesque.
5. Fairmont
Enjoy Italian flavor and the season’s simpler charms in Fairmont. Start with Feast of the 7 Fishes festival, where you can enjoy an authentic taste of Italian culture, from a 7-course seafood meal to music, wine, dance and more. The town’s historic Fleming Mansion will be ornately dressed for Tea with a Twist, where 1800s attire will be on display alongside the seasonal decorations.
Wake early to catch the annual parade through town, then toss on some skates and glide the day away at the outdoor rink at Palatine Park. When the sun sets, take a ride through more than a mile of bright displays at the Celebration of Lights.
6. Webster Springs & Addison
Two neighboring towns erupt with holiday fun during Hometown White Christmas. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit for the parade through the streets, which will shimmer with seasonal decor. Downtown shops will open for extended hours so you can get all your Christmas shopping crossed off.
Where will you tuck away this season?
This post was last updated on July 23, 2020