Celebrating the Holidays in Burke County: Parades, Lights, and Local Cheer

Celebrating the Holidays in Burke County: Parades, Lights, and Local Cheer

The holidays in Burke County are what mountain dreams are made of—snow-dusted streets, steaming mugs of cider, glowing storefronts, and the laughter of neighbors gathering downtown. In the towns of Morganton and Valdese, the spirit of the season shines bright. Parades roll down Main Street, twinkling light displays sparkle across the foothills, and local shops brim with handmade gifts and warm greetings.

If you’re planning a Western North Carolina holiday getaway, here’s your guide to the best parades, lights, and traditions that make the season in Burke County so special.

1. Morganton Tree Lighting and Winter Carnival

Nothing ushers in the holidays quite like the Morganton Christmas Lighting Ceremony and Winter Carnival. During the day, downtown Morganton transforms into something straight out of a Hallmark movie—where families can write letters to Santa, get their faces painted, enjoy sweet treats, snap photos with festive characters, and watch dazzling ice carvings take shape.

As evening falls, the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony begins with performances from local choirs, followed by a heartfelt address from the mayor and a local pastor. Then, the lights flicker on, officially illuminating the season. The moment the tree sparkles to life feels like pure magic—especially with a warm cup of cocoa in hand.

Before the night ends, don’t miss the new Fire and Ice Sculpture tradition, a mesmerizing finale to an already enchanting day. This year’s celebration will take place on November 22, 2025, from 2:30–6:00 PM.

2. Christmas Parades Across Burke County

The holiday spirit shines bright in every corner of Burke County, and nothing captures that hometown joy quite like a Christmas parade. Each of our charming communities celebrates the season with its own festive procession—complete with twinkling lights, holiday music, and plenty of cheer.

Kicking off the fun is the Morganton Christmas Parade on Tuesday, December 2 at 6:00 PM in downtown Morganton. Expect sparkling floats, marching bands, and Santa himself leading the way. Next up is the J. Iverson Riddle Christmas Parade on Thursday, December 4 at 3:00 PM (note that gates close at 2:30 PM). This beloved tradition brings together residents, families, and community members in a heartwarming celebration.

On Saturday, December 6, the festivities continue with a double dose of holiday cheer. The Valdese Christmas Parade rolls down Main Street at 10:00 AM, followed by the Hildebran Parade at 1:00 PM, each offering its own small-town sparkle.

Rounding out the season is the Town of Drexel Christmas Parade, stepping off at 10:00 AM December 13th in downtown Drexel—a perfect way to wrap up the season of hometown holiday magic.

3. Drive Through the Lights at J. Iverson Riddle.

For nearly half a century, the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center has been lighting up the holidays with one of Burke County’s most beloved traditions. Now in its 49th year, the annual Parade and Lights event continues to bring joy to thousands of visitors. The celebration begins with the J. Iverson Riddle Christmas Parade, and when the parade ends, the campus transforms into a twinkling wonderland. As you drive through, you’ll pass scenes featuring storybook characters and glittering holiday displays that wind throughout the grounds of the Developmental Center. This free drive-through light show runs nightly from 5:30–10:30 PM through December 31, offering families a chance to experience the magic of the season from the warmth of their car—a timeless holiday tradition that continues to brighten hearts year after year.

4. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides in Downtown Morganton

Experience the magic of the season with a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown Morganton. Beginning during the Winter Carnival on November 22, these enchanting rides continue every Friday and Saturday from November 28–December 20, from 5:30–9:00 PM. Snuggle under a blanket, listen to the clip-clop of hooves, and take in the glow of downtown’s holiday lights as you glide through the streets. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children, with sales beginning at 5:00 PM each evening at the ticket window behind the stage on the downtown square. It’s a charming way to slow down, soak in the sparkle, and make a holiday memory you’ll treasure all season long.

5. Shop Local at Holiday Markets

Holiday markets are a great way to find unique items for your loves ones while supporting local artists and makers. One of our favorites is the Christmas in November Craft and Gift Show in Valdese November 7th from 4:00-8:00pm and November 8th from 9:00am-2:00pm at the Old Rock School. Check out the 60+ vendors showcasing all sorts of crafts and gifts. Admission is $2 or free with a canned food item. Veterans get in free in honor of Veteran's Day Weekend. Another favorite is the Holiday Market in Downtown Morganton on November 22nd from 4pm-9pm at the Midweek Famers Market location on Green Street. Find these and more holiday markets on our events page on our website.

6. Catch a Christmas Concert or Theater Show

The holiday arts scene in Burke County is alive with music and performances. The City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium (CoMMA) has many holiday shows this year including Dolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol November 30th at 7:30pm, The Magic of Christmas with Western Piedmont Symphony December 17th at 7:30pm and Caroline Calouche & Co. presents Clara's Trip: A Cirque & Dance Nutcracker Story December 20th at 7pm.

7. Hatley Memorial Tree Lighting in Valdese

Light up Downtown Valdese on December 2nd starting at 6pm with the Valdese Elementary School choir, free hot chocolate and an appearance from Ol' Saint Nick. Named after Jim Hatley, a former Mayor of Valdese, this event is a special way to ring in the holiday season with your family.

8. Toast the Season at Local Breweries & Wineries

Raise a glass to good cheer with seasonal releases at Fonta Flora Brewery, Sidetracked Brewery, or Silver Fork Winery. Many host special holiday events, live music, or limited-edition brews and wines. A local favorite? Pairing a rich stout or mulled wine with mountain views and good company. Check out our event calendar for drink releases and special events.

9. Enjoy Local Dining and Seasonal Menus

Holiday dining in Burke County blends local ingredients with cozy mountain comfort. Restaurants like Root & Vine, Treat, 100 Main and Majors Supper and Social often roll out seasonal specials featuring roasted vegetables, hearty soups, and desserts worth saving room for. Don’t skip seasonal cocktails—a sweet bourbon drink or festive cranberry spritz feels right at home this time of year.

10. Take a Winter Hike or Scenic Drive

The mountains may be quieter in winter, but they’re no less beautiful. Crisp air and open trails at Lake James State Park or Linville Gorge Wilderness make for peaceful adventures between festivities. With the leaves off the trees, the views are better and you are less likely to see creepy crawlies like snakes and bugs that might dampen your experience. Plan your adventure by requesting our trail guide or stopping by the visitor center to brainstorm ideas.

Plan Your Holiday Getaway

When it comes to creating mountain memories, the holidays in Burke County are full of simple joys—gathering with loved ones, watching the lights twinkle downtown, and celebrating traditions that feel timeless.

Plan your winter visit at DiscoverBurkeCounty.com and let the warmth of the season guide your travels through North Carolina’s most charming mountain towns.