On New Year's Eve, the event will feature a fireworks show not to be missed, to welcome in the new year with excitement and cheer.Are you searching for the best things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina? We have got you covered! Whether you’re just passing through, or staying for a little while, Cherokee has plenty of activities to do with the family or a group of friends looking for a fun weekend away!

'It just lights them up.'įor smiles as bright as the holiday lights, take your family to the Cherokee Lights and Legends event before Santa leaves for the North Pole on December 19th. This year's opening night saw record crowds of around 800 people who gathered to experience the holiday festivities, admire the beautiful 40-foot Christmas tree, and take in all the fun.Īccording to Lisa Frady, Events and Group Tour Coordinator for the Fairgrounds, 'At Cherokee Lights and Legends, you can spend good quality time with your whole family.' Santa Claus portrait session ($5 for one photo, saved to a CD so you can make as many prints as you like)

The legends include A Cherokee Welcome, How the Bear Lost His Tail, The Story of the 7 Clans, and Those Who Stayed.Īdmission into the Fairgrounds is free, as is the hot chocolate and marshmallows to roast, with local Cherokee storytellers sharing winter tales and legends around a bonfire from 7 pm to 9 pm each night of the event.įor a fee, there are additional activities for the kids to enjoy, including: The event takes place Thursday-Saturday from 6 pm-9 pm, and is closed December 24-26.Īlong the walking paths of the Fairgrounds, you'll see custom-designed interactive displays that reflect Cherokee stories traditionally told during the winter months. It takes months of planning, weeks to set up, and lights-lots of lights!-to create the Cherokee Lights and Legends event at the Cherokee Fairgrounds on display through January 2nd.

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