Christmas in Marion: Your Homey Holiday Hub

Marion -- November 2024: Press Release: Destination McDowell: From the Very Marion Christmas Parade to the Gold Nugget Drop on New Year's Eve, the city of Marion, N.C.,

 

Marion is welcoming visitors to experience cozy, small-town charm and Appalachian holiday traditions 

Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in McDowell County, against the backdrop of majestic Mount Ida, Marion's downtown dressed up for Christmas could double as a Hallmark Christmas movie set. Lined with historic buildings, churches, and the McDowell County Courthouse, Marion's downtown streets welcome visitors to enjoy twinkling holiday lights and the town's hometown holiday celebrations. 

"Marion's shops, restaurants, and attractions are open and ready to welcome visitors to enjoy the Christmas season," said Shannon Odom, Executive Director of Destination McDowell.

"We've continued to navigate through the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and we are joyful and grateful that Marion and parts of McDowell County are coming back strong."

 

Romantic Landmarks

 

Setting the tone for making Christmas memories, downtown's most recognized historic landmark stands at the corner of South Main and West Court streets - the Cupola at the top of historic Marion Courthouse. This 1903 Gothic Revival building boasts Romanesque Revival elements, a large bell tower, steeply pitched roofs and stained glass windows. Marion's Railway Depot District, a national historic district set in a park-like gathering place, is just steps away from the center of downtown. The 1860s-era depot is the oldest surviving depot on the western rail line, and was restored in 2005. A bright red rail car offers a fun backdrop for capturing photos. 

Holiday Shopping in Downtown Marion, plus Skating and Axe Throwing (yes, Axe Throwing)

 

Downtown Marion's shops carry a large array of goods, making it the perfect place to find unique and creative holiday gifts made by local artists. 

Those who love pottery will want to time their visit to coincide with The 36th Annual Appalachian Potters Market, one of the Southeast's largest pottery markets taking place Dec. 7. This regional holiday tradition attracts more than 40 pottery artists who show and sell their work. 

The McDowell Arts Council Association hosts the annual Blue Ridge Artisans' Show and Sale, featuring art created by locals living in McDowell County. The event runs Nov. 29  through Dec. 23. 

More shopping options await throughout downtown, including Flavors on Main General Store,  Lucky Crow Hat Company, Vintage Market Marion, and Time Travelers Trading Company.  The Miller Business Complex offers a unique blend of businesses under one roof, including Marion Hot Wheelz Skating Rink, The Heathen's Den Axe Throwing and Ales, Chance of Sprinkles Bakery, All Things Geeky by 2 Nerds and The Fruit of Her Hands Boutique.

Eat, Drink and Be Marion

 

Traditional regional cooking blends seamlessly with modern culinary creativity in Marion, with a diverse array of fresh, local food and drink to satisfy every palate. Enjoy holiday treats and of-the-moment snacks throughout the season, as well as traditional fare rooted in Appalachian culture. 

McDowell County's first charcuterie restaurant opened recently in Marion's Depot District. Golden Hour Charcuterie serves a selection of cured meats, pâtés, cheeses, crackers and fresh bread. The Depot District is also home to family-owned Keeper's Cut Meadery. Traditional and flavored mead made from hops cut from the grounds and honey from the family hives make up the menu options. Guests can also sign up for the "Bee to Bottle" tour.

McDowell Local Neighborhood Eatery on Main Street serves from-scratch dishes filled with farm-fresh local ingredients created by Aaron Mathews and his family. On the menu is the Livermush Sandwich, an authentic Appalachian delicacy, grilled crispy and served with housemade mustard. Other choices include Crabby Abby's, Marion Wing Factory, and Blanton House Restaurant & Venue.

The original Mica Town Brewing, Marion's first brewery honoring the heritage of Appalachian mining with beer inspired by the geology and hard-working people of Western North Carolina is located downtown on Brown Drive, with a second location in Nebo near Lake James. 

Cooper Creek Distillery makes small batch "moonshine" varieties, drawing on old mountain traditions passed down for generations. Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Cooper Creek offers a variety of flavors, even perfecting their own brandy. 

Marion's Holiday Events

 

 

Christmas in Marion offers visitors the chance to soak up local flavor and support the city's businesses and non-profit organizations. 

 

A Very Marion Christmas Parade

 

As tradition dictates, Marion kicks off the season with A Very Marion Christmas Parade through downtown on Nov. 24. McDowell County's own award-winning McDowell High School Marching Titan Band leads the parade, followed by ornately decorated floats, horses, antique cars, and the guests of honor - Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

 

New Year's Eve for the Kids and the Grownups!

 

Marion's Annual New Year's Eve Celebration along Main Street on Dec. 31 is not to be missed. In fact, Country Living Magazine named it a top small-town New Year's Eve Celebration. 

 

Early in the evening before the midnight festivities, Marion's first ever Family-Friendly New Year's Eve Party starts at 7 p.m. with a DJ, light refreshments, a countdown-style Ball Drop and Apple Juice Toast at 8 p.m. The first 200 kids will receive a boa or party hat and a noise maker. A photobooth will be set up for capturing memories. It's a way for kids to ring in the new year, and for parents to get the kids home in time for bed. The event is hosted by Marion's Rotary Club and Barefoot Baby Foundation on Main St. 

 

The festivities continue through midnight with the Resolution Run 5-K Race, a scavenger hunt, contests, wagon rides, street dancing and the unique and time-honored midnight Gold Nugget Drop, a tribute to Marion's and McDowell County's early history as the center of the United States' gold mining industry long before the California Gold Rush. 

 

A full list of all of Marion's holiday events with ticket information and additional details is available at Destination McDowell's 
website

 

Getting to Marion - Day Trip Adventures and Stayover Options

 

Marion's proximity to Asheville, Charlotte, and Hickory makes it a unique day trip for Christmas shopping or checking out some of its holiday-themed activities. 

 

For visitors traveling from longer distances, a variety of loding options are available in Marion including vacation rentals, guest houses and cabins that range from rustic hideaways to waterfront homes or luxury rentals in gated communities. Log homes, B&Bs, campgrounds, locally owned motels and national brand hotels are also available near Interstate 40. 

 

Free McDowell County Travel Guide

 

For more information about McDowell County and things to do while visiting, a free travel guide is available for download at this 
link

 

About McDowell County, N.C.

McDowell County, N.C., is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of Western North Carolina. It is home to an abundance of natural beauty with nearly 200 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, charming small towns, and cultural experiences that celebrate its rich Southern Appalachian history. With easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the graceful bends and turns of the Catawba River, moments of awe and beauty are plentiful throughout the county. More information about McDowell County, N.C., may be found at McDowell.com