Spending time in McDowell County during the winter holidays is so much more than just shopping… Sweet downtown streets lined with twinkling holiday lights, storefronts with their merry offerings and fun and festive seasonal events for the whole family. Around here, shopping is truly an experience. So, for all of those most special people in your life, why not gift them a trip to these magical mountain towns with the promise of memories to be made, surrounded by these majestic Blue Ridge Mountains?
After Hurricane Helene’s damage to so much of this beautiful area, your support now means so very much. And as a bonus - there is hardly a more magical place to start your 2024 holiday season.
Downtown Marion awaits you with its eclectic selection of local boutiques, art and craft galleries, jewelers, antiques for the thing-finders and breweries and eateries of all kinds for all tastes and preferences. Prepare for all of your senses to be dazzled.
Visit the Blue Ridge Artisans Craft Show at the McDowell Arts Council Association to shop and support the work of local artisans. These artists create pottery, woodwork, jewelry, textiles, and other fine arts. Every item is handmade right here in McDowell County! Shop here for locally made handicrafts during the entire month of December.
The 36th Annual Appalachian Potters Market will take place on Saturday, December 7th, from 10a to 4p at McDowell High School. This annual event is known for its large variety of offerings by some of the most talented artisans in all of the Southeast. This will be a day full of whimsy, fun, live music and feeling good knowing you are investing in the local talent of this area.
One way to fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit is by attending an old-fashion small town holiday parade. While in McDowell County, you are in luck. A Very Marion Christmas Parade will be held on Sunday November 24th on Main Street. Don’t ever miss a chance you get to attend a parade, y’all!
The Vintage Market in Marion is a must see for you lovers of all things vintage and antique. You just never know what you will find while wandering the vendor booths, where the selection is ever-changing and rarely ordinary. Mountain Laurel Antiques is another treasure-trove of finds for you, the family and friends, packed with plenty of everything.
Flavors on Main General Store will make it super easy to satisfy most any holiday shopping list. A very eclectic shop, you will find artisanal olive oils, balsamics, spices, seasonings and teas, plus Orvis fishing gear. And they have snacks! And they have a terrific selection of Bigfoot merch! Just go. See for yourself!
Much of Old Fort is still putting their energies into recovering from the storm, but The Davis Country Store and Cafe is the exception. Head here to pick up locally sourced and homemade goodies (which are great for making gift baskets!). Plus, the cafe is the perfect excuse to slow down and sit a spell for a delicious lunch.
