Erin Anderson's fun with bubbles inspired husband Keith to this winning photo in our 2006 contest.   Here are the events coming up in November & December; check out our Events Calendar for details: Dulcimer Music with John Mason November 2nd - 4th Guided Rock Climbing Clinics November 4th & 5th, 11th & 12th Outdoor Classroom for Homeschoolers: What is the Fuss with Fall November 13th Outdoor Classroom for Homeschoolers: Plate Tectonics December 11th Santa Rappels Down THE Chimney December 2nd & 9th To register for events or receive more information, give us a call or send an e-mail. 1-800-277-9611 visit@chimneyrockpark.com

There's plenty of beautiful fall color still showing in the mountains, but we’re already preparing for your holiday visit.  With all that we’ve got planned, you may want to make a whole weekend of it.   But before we delve into our holiday plans, check out the winners of this year’s photo contest.

Park Guests Let Their Talents Shine!

As usual, the Park’s annual photo contest revealed a bounty of creativity in our guests. From bubbles floating into the air to interesting shots that made trees appear to be growing through the rocks, entries once again showed the Park’s incredible beauty and the many ways our guests view it.

The theme was “Summertime & the Livin’ is Easy.” Our judges were Jeff Miller, professional photographer with over 15 years’ experience; Jean Gordon, Features Editor & Senior Reporter at The Daily Courier in Forest City, NC; and Todd Morse, President of Chimney Rock Park and avid amateur photographer. Check out the winning entries.

The Holidays Are Coming: Time to Show off (and Eat Some Great Food, too)!

Turkey, trails, trees & time together: what could be better? The holidays are all about time to reconnect with family and friends. And they give you local folks a chance to show off what a beautiful place you live in when company comes to town. You’ll be the envy of all of your friends and family when you bring them for a visit to the Park. What fun to share the many breathtaking mountaintop vistas so close to your own backyard.

The Holidays Spell P-A-R-T-Y; Let Us Plan Yours!

It’s time to think about those employee Christmas parties and gatherings of special friends or volunteer organizations. Reserve the Old Rock Café for your private evening party, or let us cater your event with one of our awesome holiday menus. Make plans now so they can get you on their schedule. Check out the menu options or call and we’ll help you create your own.

A “Rockin' Holiday Stocking-Stuffer” Deal

Wracking your brain trying to come up with special holiday goodies for those you love? We’ve got the gift for you! Now through December 24, you can purchase an adult Annual Pass for only $20 (regularly $25) and a Grady’s Kids Club pass for just $8 (regularly $10). They’re easy to get into the stocking and will be a great reminder of you – all year long!

Santa’s on THE Chimney, Chili’s on the Stove, and YOU Could Be Cruising!

Far removed from shopping malls & crowded parking lots, there’s plenty going on in Chimney Rock Village and Lake Lure:

• Friday, Dec 1st – Round up your family and friends, enjoy some award-winning chili and play bingo as the Chimney Rock Village Community Development Association hosts its Annual Chili Cook-off. When the judging is done, the chili, cornbread and salad dinner will be served starting at 6pm at the Chimney Rock Volunteer Fire Department (across the street from the Park). After dinner, stick around to play bingo at 7pm. You may just be the lucky winner of the cash jackpot!
• The Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Light Up the Gorge holiday decorating competition, which will be judged that same evening. Be sure to drive around and see the lights. There will be two categories, business and residential. Any business or private residence from Gerton to Lake Lure can compete. If you’re local, why not enter? Just call 828-625-9800 by Nov. 30.
• Saturday, Dec. 2nd – Santa will be hanging out on the “Rock” from 11am - 2pm as he practices for his big night of shimmying down all those chimneys. Bring the whole family and join in the fun. Free with Park admission.
• Monday, Dec. 4th – What if you could give the gift of a cruise this holiday season? Attend the Annual Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce Christmas Auction and you just may win one. This year’s auction is at Lakeview Restaurant at Rumbling Bald Resort.  Tickets are $35 per person and include heavy hors d'oeuvres and dancing. Raffle tickets for the cruise drawing are $25 each or 5 for $100. Event tickets are limited, so call the Park office at 828-625-9611 or the Chamber at 828-625-2725 and get yours today.
• Saturday, Dec. 9th – Santa will be practicing his Chimney descents again at the Park from 11am - 2pm. Free with Park admission.

A Gift for You, a Gift for Them...

Since there’s so much going on here this season, why not give yourself a gift while shopping for others? We’ve made it affordable and simple by teaming up with area accommodations to offer you Wonderful Winter Package Deals. Come to the Park to enjoy the great outdoors and then retire to a cozy B&B, quaint mountain cabin or a hotel within walking distance of unique shops and eateries.

In the News...

Check out Chimney Rock Park in the news recently on the NBC affiliate, WRAL in Raleigh, NC. 

Have a safe and happy holiday season! We look forward to seeing you here.