January 25, 2012
Banner Elk, NC – A Love Affair
By Patricia Dunham, Festiva Adventure Club member
In the summer of 2000 my husband was looking through our timeshare resort listings and came upon Blue Ridge Village. Since my summer vacation as a teacher was coming to an end he decided that we would go to Blue Ridge Village for Thanksgiving that year. My initial reaction was not positive as we still had two unmarried “young adult” children and I felt Thanksgiving was for family time. However, we started making plans and reservations for the trip and asked another couple to go with us. I can still recall my excitement as we started driving across the state on the 7+ hour trip and came into the foothills. Even though the fall colors were gone by then and there was very little snow on the peaks of a few mountains I could relax in the beauty of the land. We stopped in Boone for gas before turning down 105 and heading towards Banner Elk. Grandfather Mountain greeted us just before we turned onto 185 to get to Blue Ridge Village.
Upon arriving in our unit I was overwhelmed by the décor and well-stocked kitchen as well as the large tub with the magical lights in the glass wall. A walk around the grounds led to the pond and the view of the Sugar Mountain condos way on the top of the mountain across the road. Although chilly the fresh air was wonderful, clear and pure.
We had a wonderful time exploring Mast General Store and Boone and trying out different eateries in Banner Elk. The Banner Elk Café was a favorite for breakfast. Our Thanksgiving dinner was at The Inn on Elk River which we had located online and made reservations for.
The next Thanksgiving we returned with a different couple and this time we went to the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. We also drove along the Blue Ridge Parkway for the first time and into Blowing Rock. Nick’s at Tynecastle shopping area was perfect for a warm dinner after a day of exploring. The night before we left we had a fabulous meal at Stonewall’s in Banner Elk. This started a tradition for my husband of having our final meal out at Stonewall’s and it was never a disappointment.
I was falling in love … with Banner Elk and Blue Ridge Village. It brought me peace and relaxation as I prepared for the upcoming Christmas holidays. Most Thanksgivings we spent there were just the two of us. As I knew my husband would be watching a lot of football I brought along various classroom projects to work on as well as my Christmas cookie recipes and baking supplies. My sewing machine made the trip a couple of years to make a tree skirt for my daughter’s tree and a banner for my school’s entry in a parade.
But we didn’t spend the entire time inside. Daily drives took us exploring to Tennessee and the backwoods around the area. Because of the time of the year we were leery of driving up the mountain roads to go to the tops of mountains but that came later. One wild goose chase lead us north of Boone looking for a bookstore my husband had read about in a local paper that had historical books. After finally locating it, they did not have the book we were in search of, but on the way home I spotted a bookstore in Boone and walked in and found it. The search was more fun than the shopping as the distance from civilization seemed to be getting greater and greater while the gas tank was getting lower and lower … but we could still laugh about our adventures. Often we drove the Blue Ridge Parkway into Blowing Rock, each time passing the entrance to Grandfather Mountain but remarking we could never make the hike up to the top.
It being Thanksgiving weekend Blowing Rock was getting ready for the Christmas holidays with the small town decorated as well as the shops. By chance one morning we went into the Speckled Trout for breakfast in Blowing Rock and I order a smoked salmon omelet. Oh, my goodness! It was wonderful and this became a new tradition until the restaurant stopped opening for breakfasts.
One summer we had extra Adventure Club points to use so we booked a week at Blue Ridge Village the first of August before I went back to the classroom. Of course the look of the area was completely different with everything green and lush and the skies bluer than you could imagine. This time we did drive to the top of the mountains, up to Sugar Mountain, then Hawk Mountains and the town of Seven Devils. We were so amazed at all the homes nestled in the sides of the mountains and marveled at the engineering feats it must have taken to complete the buildings. There were billboards advertising zip-lining and white-water rafting but neither of us felt we were in the physical shape to do these although it did look like fun. We talked about how much our son and son-in-law would have enjoyed trying the fishing in the rivers and maybe playing a round of golf. The daughter and daughter-in-law would surely have gone to the Tanger Outlets to go shopping if we had brought them along. But this was OUR time and OUR place so we came alone and left the family behind.
We continued coming each Thanksgiving through 2009. This was one of the most magical trips as just as I was taking our turkey dinner out of the oven I looked outside and the biggest snowflakes were falling and it was truly a winter wonderland. We had had dustings of snow other years and some nasty ice one year but never anything this beautiful. The next day the snow was gone but it was bitter cold. Much to my surprise my husband suggested we go to Blowing Rock that afternoon for the lighting of the town Christmas tree which is something we have never done before. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at an English Pub there as well as the sights and sounds of the town but it was just too cold to stay until the tree was lit although we did drive past it on our way out of town.
Sadly this was to have been our last trip together as my husband died suddenly two weeks later. But my love for Blue Ridge Village lived on and I arranged a trip in June with another recently widowed lady to go back to the mountains. It was bittersweet but comforting as well. She and I read in a pamphlet more about Grandfather Mountain and learned that you do not have to hike to the top but you drive up. It was quite an adventure doing the drive and then walking to the mile high bridge. Neither of us felt brave enough to venture out onto the bridge but we marveled at the view from up there, saying maybe next time. We loved seeing the animals in the preserve at Grandfather Mountain and sharing birthday cake as it was their birthday weekend. My friend and I visited the Antique Mall on 105 and looked for a glass paperweight for me since I had decided to start a collection from every place I visited after my husband’s death. She was collecting roosters for her kitchen. A trip to Blowing Rock was needed so I could introduce her to the small shops there and more antiquing on the way back to Blue Ridge Village. My daughter and grandson and two of her friends spent one night with us after spending the day at Tweetsie Railroad. The grandson loves trains so this was perfect for a 4-year-old.
Now retired and never having seen the mountains in their fall color I arranged for a weekend at the end of October to return to my favorite place. This time my friend’s daughter and son-in-law came along. “Breathtaking” is just one word to try to describe the beauty of the surroundings. Back to the top of Grandfather Mountain with her daughter and son-in-law and we were a bit braver on the bridge. Of course we had to take them to Nick’s to eat and to the antique stores and Mast General Store. I so loved showing MY little piece of heaven on earth with others.
May came and there was a week special from Festiva for Blue Ridge Village which I booked and took another friend with me for the week. We did see some of the rhododendrons in bloom but not as many as I had expected. Another trip to the top of Grandfather Mountain and this time I walked all the way across the bridge. Again, breathtaking does not adequately describe the beauty of the land. Kathy was a shopper with several events going on in June so we spent a lot of time in Blowing Rock as well as Banner Elk looking and her buying. It was a nice relaxing five days with her that was a bit less than the week but she had commitments at home we needed to get back to.
MY place kept calling me back so in August I booked a 4 day stay and took two friends with me. I had seen advertisements in May for the August production of The Sound of Music at the Lees McRae College. I ordered tickets for us online and treated my friends to that evening out. The show was outstanding and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for 2012 summer as I would like to go again. If the production had been brought to Banner Elk right from Broadway it could not have been any better. I strongly recommend that people book their visits to Blue Ridge Village around the production schedule. I know I will. On one trip back from Banner Elk we turned right at the duck pond at the edge of the town and came upon the most beautiful waterfall. There was a recently constructed bridge over it. Beautiful, peaceful, relaxing, cool, soothing sounds … how could I have missed it in all my trips there?
Last fall was another trip to Blue Ridge Village for a fall getaway, this time with my friend and her sister. Fall colors were still out and we even had several inches of snow one night. This was exciting as we are from the eastern part of North Carolina and many winters come and go without the first snowflake. Luckily it melted by noon of the next day and didn’t hamper our plans to visit Blowing Rock and Mast General Store. Later, not wanting a full meal, we stopped at The Banner Elk Café for coffee and dessert. I counted 15 different desserts in the display case and there may have been more. We each had to select a different one and shared. This may become a tradition for me. Another first was driving through the campus of Lees McRae College and looking at the stone buildings. Again, how could I have missed this before and what else is there still to be discovered? And the covered bridge we spotted off of 105 at Sleepy Hollow?
My love affair with Blue Ridge Village will continue. The roads across the state that lead there are improving and I can make the trip in less than 7 hours. I also feel a connection with my husband while there as it brings back so many memories from our times spent together in our special place. But I also love sharing this special place with others. I have already booked a week in October and will be traveling from a conference in Charlotte to Blue Ridge Village to meet my brother, sister-in-law and a former high school/college/teaching roommate who are traveling from Ohio to join me. I can’t wait to see their reactions when I take them to all the special places I have come to love about the area. I think a day trip to the Biltmore Estates will be in the agenda as none of them have ever been there.
Blue Ridge Village has changed ever so slightly each year but always for the better. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, cabins are being built, units are being renovated and the pool was redone but the coziness of the resort nestled into the side of the hill will always remain … as will my love affair with Blue Ridge Village.
December 29, 2011
Heaven on Earth
-by Dina Auger, Festiva Adventure Club Loyalty Program Member
Our first visit to Rangeley Lake Resort was pure “Heaven” to us! It was relaxing, peaceful and a great time for family bonding. My husband is in the Navy and seemed to always be deployed for one reason or another. Rangeley Lake Resort gave us the best “family time” we could ask for. In fact we liked it so much we bought another week. Shortly after that, Festiva bought out the resort and we converted over to the point system. This gave us even more time to enjoy what we consider “Heaven on Earth”.
We have spent most of our stays in the summer months at Rangeley. We love to hike
the many trails that surround the lakes. From the top of Bald Mountain to the Majestic Angel Falls, our hikes show us so much of the beauty of the area. Our new family tradition is to take the short 7-mile drive to Smalls Falls, not just for the beauty, but the kids really love jumping off the rocks into the lower pool. The water is cold, but so refreshing!
Swimming down at the resort’s own dock area is always fun. The kids can canoe, paddle boat, swim or fish. We have had some 
great times down on the lake, including the times werent apontoon boat and cruise around the lake. My favorite thing to do is to take pictures. I love going out and looking for moose and other wildlife to photograph. I have captured some of our most cherished family memories at Rangeley Lake Resort!
The staff at Rangeley is very accommodating and friendly; the cabins are well cared for, cozy and wonderfully decorated! The town of Rangeley has its own rustic flair too. Small town friendliness mixed with great restaurants and fun shops to browse make this tiny town center a must visit for us each year.
We have stayed at RLR in the winter as well. It is so fun to see all the snowmobilers riding on the lake. Snow shoeing and cross-country trails are in abundance as well. We love to head up the hill a short way to Saddleback Ski Area. It is so nice to be able to ski all day, take in the winter views from the top of the mountain, and be able to be “home” in 10 minutes and relax in the hot tub or by a cozy fire.
We love Rangeley Lake Resort so much that even when we had to move to the West Coast, we still made time to get to Rangeley for our summer vacation! We are now back on the East Coast, compliments of the US Navy, and we look forward to spending many more vacations in Rangeley, Maine.
December 21, 2011
Festiva Hospitality Group employees raise nearly $18,000 for charity
Festiva Hospitality Group is proud to announce that our 8th Annual Holiday Charity Auction, held Thurs., Dec. 8, at Festiva’s headquarters in Asheville, was a huge success. Festiva employees once again worked together to donate more than 250 items, and raised a record-breaking total of $17,950.
All proceeds from Festiva’s auction go to the Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministries (ABCCM) to benefit the children of families that are struggling as so many are during this holiday season. This year, the ABCCM focused on helping military families in the Asheville area.
“We’re so thrilled that we can help more families than ever this year,” said Sabrina Green, Festiva’s Contracts Supervisor and head of the auction committee. “This event is always heartwarming as it shows how willing our employees are to help those in need, and we are especially blessed that we can do so while the economy is difficult for many.”
Festiva would like to extend sincere gratitude to several area businesses who contributed to our auction with their generous donations including: Pepsi Co., Asheville Choral Society, Mona Lisa Food Products, The Star Group Company, Commercial Concepts, Asheville Furniture Showcase, Bouchon, Cloud Surfer Web Consultant Services, Coca-Cola and Budweiser.
This year, some donated items were selected to be part of a silent auction or raffle and were displayed two days prior to the live auction. These items brought in more than $700 before the live auction began.
As a result of the auction, Festiva sponsored 11 families and purchased $10,000 in other toys for ABCCM. With new families signing up each month that have never needed assistance before, the ABCCM needs help from the community more than ever this year. Festiva employees also shopped for the families and toys and delivered everything to the charity on December 15.
Festiva’s Auction Committee, which includes employees from nearly every department in our corporate office, begins planning the event in October of each year. Employees in the corporate office donate the items which include gift baskets, hand-crafted items, gourmet or homemade foods, gift certificates and many other items donated by both individuals and local businesses.
Businesses who donate items are often invited to the auction, as are Festiva employees’ families. Several employees from various Festiva resorts and other offices also participate by donating items or attending the auction. Festiva’s Senior Vice President of Sales Rich Hartnett and Regional Sales Director Michael Stacey travel from South Carolina to showcase their sales talents as auctioneers for the event.
To find out more about Festiva Hospitality Group, visit www.festiva.travel.
December 5, 2011
Journeys Fall Review: Coconut Malorie
In our last blog we took a look at some of the exciting activities, restaurants and events that are available to guests at Festiva Hospitality Group’s Bahamian vacation destination the Paradise Harbour Club & Marina. Today we head back to the main land and take a glimpse at the second featured destination in the Fall 2011 edition of Journeys, Coconut Malorie. Located in one of the most sought after destinations in the Northeast, Ocean City,MD, Coconut Malorie is the newest addition to the Festiva family of resorts.
Ocean City Boardwalk: Three miles long and more than 100 years old, the Ocean City
boardwalk is just a short walk from the resort. Start the day learning about the history of the boardwalk and Ocean City on a nostalgic trip back through time at the Life-Saving Station Museum. After discovering the history of the boardwalk spend the rest of the day enjoying life in the cool breeze of the Atlantic. Take a spin on the county’s oldest running carousel at Trimper’s Amusements or hop on a bike and take a leisurely ride along the beach.
Fager’s Island: A short walk across a footbridge from the resort rests one of the most well-known dining spots in Ocean City, the Fager’s Island Restaurant & Bar. Built by the resort’s founder John Fager, the restaurant not only serves up an array of classics like crab cakes, swordfish and prime rib but they also feature the best view of the setting sun over Isle of Wright Bay. Of course, once you’re done being awed by the view and food head to the bar and enjoy live music every night of the week.
Beyond Ocean City: While the boardwalk provides endless entertainment options sometimes the hustle and bustle can leave guests searching for a nice quiet alternative day trip. Luckily the quaint towns of Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach and Berlin are waiting to be explored just minutes outside of town. Head north a few minutes to tax-free Delaware to do some outlet shopping in Rehoboth Beach before heading back south to explore the local shops and eateries that dot the charming boardwalk in Bethany Beach. A quick 10-minute drive back inland and back into Maryland will have you in the heart of Berlin, a picturesque town that was the setting for Hollywood productions “Tuck Everlasting” and “Runaway Bride.”
Assateague Island: Only nine miles south of Ocean City and seemingly a world away is the Assateague Island National Seashore. Thirty seven miles of pristine beaches, more than 300 wild horses and three hiking trails make this national preserve required stop for anyone staying at Coconut Malorie. A $15 per car entry fee provides one full week of access to this wildlife refugee so be sure to get your pass early in the week to maximize your dollar.
For the full versions of the articles and more exciting news on Festiva Hospitality Group be sure to visit our website and check out Journeys.
December 2, 2011
Journeys Fall Review
The fall edition of Journeys , Festiva Hospitality Group’s online travel magazine, is finally out and with two exciting destinations featured there is plenty to explore. Today we visit the Paradise Harbour Club & Marina (PHC) in the Bahamas and take a quick look at some of the exciting articles about all of the activities, restaurants and entertainment options that await guests in this tropical paradise.
Around the Island: There is plenty to explore while staying at PHC, and some of the best discoveries are the ones that are free. Start the day by catching one of the shuttles offered by the resort and head over to Nassau to shop your heart out at the Straw Market. After spending a few hours shopping for locally made items head to the base of the Paradise Island exit bridge to Potter’s Cay Fish Fry and enjoy an unforgettable meal Bahamian style. Return to the resort after lunch and walk across the street to Cabbage Beach and spend the afternoon on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches as you unwind in the tropical breeze.
Island Adventures: Guests at PHC will enjoy a wide variety of adventures to choose
from while staying at the resort, and best of all the front desk can book almost any excursion you can think of including the #1 Attraction in Nassau according to TripAdvisor, the Bahamas Segway & Beach Experience. Jump on a Segway X2 and explore a private 200 acre track of land on the south side of the island before emerging onto a hidden beach where the troubles of life melt away. More of an animal lover than an adventure seeker? Head out to Blue Lagoon Island and spend the day swimming with dolphins or sea lions at this one-of-a-kind animal habitat.
Atlantis Casino: Located on the grounds of the world famous Atlantis Resort, the Atlantis Casino keeps the adrenalin flowing long after the sun sets. Open to the public and adorned with glass sculptures by renowned artist Dale Chihuly, the casino features more than 850 slot machines and 90 gaming tables to keep even the most experienced gamers entertained.
Columbus Tavern: Conch Fritters, Boiled Fish, Conch Stew and Guava Duff are just a few of the traditional Bahamian dishes served up at one of Paradise Island’s best kept secrets, the Columbus Tavern. Located on the resort property, the restaurant features an open air dining area that overlooks Nassau Harbour and an extensive menu of tropical mixed drinks and fine dining options. Join Reggie at the bar from 5-7 p.m. daily for half price drinks and free conch fritters during happy hour. If you don’t feel like leaving to comforts of your room just call in as the Columbus Tavern also offers room service.
For the full versions of the articles and more exciting news on Festiva Hospitality Group be sure to visit our website and check out Journeys.
November 28, 2011
Christmas New Orleans Style
Our exploration of all the holiday activities taking place in Festiva vacation destinations continues today with a visit to to the Frenchmen Orleans and the Big Easy. Located in New Orleans’ trendy Marigny neighborhood, guests at the Frenchmen Orleans will be staying in the heart of all the seasonal activities offered up during the month-long celebration known as Christmas New Orleans Style.
During December the magical mystique that draws visitors to the city is spiced up a notch with an additional kick of Cajun holiday cheer. Courtyards, iron-clad balconies and mossy oaks are all adorned with festive lights as the sound of holiday music echoes through the historic streets of the French Quarter, Arts District, Garden District and downtown.
Recognized as a culinary melting pot and foodie destination, New Orleans and her chefs seem to exceed expectations during the citywide Reveillon Dinners. An old French
holiday dining tradition, the Reveillon Dinners feature renowned chefs at 42 restaurants showcasing traditional French and Creole techniques while preparing four- and five-course pre fix meals that include dishes like Absinthe Oyster Soup, Fig Glazed Duck Breast and Eggnog Crème Brulee. With prices starting at $38 and averaging around $50 per person, Christmas New Orleans Style is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of the city’s legendary restaurants like Commander’s Palace and Galatoire’s at only a portion of the price. For a full listing of all the participating restaurants and menus be sure to visit here.
A melting pot of musical styles including jazz, rhythm & blues, gospel and Cajun, the musicians of the city offer up a wide variety of live seasonal music during the 
celebration. Step inside one of the country’s most recognizable churches throughout the month for the Cathedral Concerts. Taking place at 6 p.m. in the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square, the concert series features a wide range of musical styles and artists all performing for free. Only a few minutes’ walk fromJackson Squareis the historic Hotel Monteleone which also hosts a free concert series. The decadent Victorian style lobby is the stage for choirs from area schools performing classic and modern holiday favorites.
Of course, one of the main highlights during Christmas New Orleans Style is the Celebration in the Oaks at the New Orleans City Park. Running nightly Nov. 25 through Jan. 2, 2012 (closed Dec. 24 & 31), Celebration in the Oaks consists of multiple light displays including a 20 minute state of the art musical laser show that illuminates the Botanical Gardens. A variety of amusement park rides will keep the children happy while adult preview parties featuring live bands and alcohol will be available for the older crowd. For a unique experience strap on some skates and take a spin on the new synthetic ice rink. Used by professional skaters and athletes to train in warm weather, the synthetic ice rink feels like the real thing and is sure to be a hit with the entire family.
Combining the best of both food and music, the 4th Annual Treme Creole Gumbo
Festival provides visitors to the area a more localized experience. Known for spawning some of the best jazz musicians and brass bands in the world, the streets of the Treme neighborhood will fill again on Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Feast on a large selection of homemade Cajun delights prepared by the residents of the neighborhood while jamming to the beats of the legendary Treme Brass Band, Rebirth Brass Band and many more.
November 22, 2011
Nights of a Thousand Candles in Murrells Inlet
Last week we took a look at some of the seasonal happenings in two of Festiva’s vacation destinations, Branson, M.O. and St. Augustine, F.L. The journey continues today in Murrells Intlet, S.C., home to Festiva’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East and the beautiful Brookgreen Gardens. The first public sculpture garden in America, Brookgreen Gardens is home to Nights of a Thousand Candles, a top 20 event in the Southeast according to the Southeastern Tourism Society.
Now celebrating its 13th year, Nights of a Thousand Candles is one of South
Carolina’s premier holiday festivals and will be held on the weekends of Dec. 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17 from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. During the festival the 30 acres that are open to the public are adorned with more than 5,500 hand-lit candles and countless lights, creating a magical wonder land that will leave visitors awe struck as they meander about the 10 unique garden areas. Candles aboard colorful floating bulbs drift softly in the fountains and ponds surrounding the sculptures as white lights gently cling to the limbs of mossy oaks, all illuminating the gardens with the magic of the holiday season.
Each night there is also an extensive array of musical performances that can be heard throughout the gardens as local choral ensembles, handbell choirs and jazz groups play classical and current holiday favorites. Bagpipes can also be heard as a bagpiper strolls the illuminated paths carelessly wandering about the grounds as visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to check out the full schedule of musical performers here.
In addition to live music and an extensive display of candles there are two indoor exhibits that can be enjoyed during the festival. Starting one weekend earlier on Nov. 25-27, Signs of the Season in Flora and Fauna is an 
exhibit created by the horticulture staff to help inspire home decor. Bromelaid trees, wreaths, poinsettias and an assortment of natural materials are all masterfully used to create holiday decorations that leave enduring memories for all. Opening the same weekend, Signs of the Season in Art and History will include seasonal paintings and sculpture accented by an array of Christmas trees decorated with Victorian and pre-World War II-era ornamentation. Period costumes made by local fabric sculptor Mary Roehr will accompany the displays as you travel through the history of Christmas in this indoor exhibit.
Founded in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington to help preserve native flora and fauna while displaying art within a natural setting, Brookgreen Gardens has more than 1,200 pieces of figurative sculpture by 350 artists and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as being designated a National Historic Landmark.
November 18, 2011
Harvesting Christmas Memories
With Thanksgiving one week away it is almost time to start planning for Christmas, and that means digging out all of the decorations from the basement or attic and preparing for the time honored tradition of putting up the tree. While most across the country will opt for the plastic version there is truly no substitute for the real thing, and luckily for Festiva owners, Blue Ridge Village is located in the heart of the tree growing industry. Check out this updated blog post from last year and be sure to visit the North Carolina Tree Growers Association online to find the perfect tree farm for you and your family.
As a child growing up in South Florida I recall the excitement each year of waiting on that fresh Christmas tree to arrive from my uncle and aunt’s farm high up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Avery County, N.C. Everyone we knew had the classic plastic tree, while sitting in our living room was six feet of sappy Fraser Fir, dark green and lush, emitting a distinct pine aroma that brings back memories in an instant. There was something about cutting open the box, sawing off some of the branches and screwing the tree into the stand, and after being drenched in sap, standing back and proudly admiring the real tree I had helped put up.
Years later I now find myself residing in the same mountains where our tree would come from each year, providing
the opportunity to now choose and cut my own tree. As late November rolls around vehicles can be seen one after the other exiting the area with that prized tree strapped on the roof, and why not? North Carolina, after all, is second in the country for the number of Christmas trees harvested each year and the five-county area that makes up the High Country has seen 11 of their trees end up as the Blue Room Christmas tree, the official tree of the President of the United States.
The High Country region sits at an average elevation of 3,300 feet, the ideal elevation and climate for growing Fraser Firs, what many consider the perfect Christmas tree due to 
its longevity, full and lush branches and sheer beauty. As you drive up into the mountains Fraser Firs can be seen lining the hillsides, creating a patchwork quilt of forest green dots. Signs for tree farms seem to be almost as abundant as the trees themselves, making it difficult to decide where to stop for the perfect tree. The North Carolina Christmas Tree Association has a great search engine that will allow you to select which county to search, the type of tree you’re looking for, and for additional amenities offered at the farms, such as hayrides, petting zoos, and refreshments like apple cider and hot apple pie.
After selecting a farm the hunt for the tree of your dreams will begin. Meander up and down the hills between rows of trees, surrounded by vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the crisp smell of pine. Once selecting the tree, only limited in size by your living room, the farm will either cut the tree or allow you to cut the tree prior to bailing and packing atop your vehicle for the ride home. All that’s left now is to decorate the tree and gather around with friends and family to enjoy the holiday season.
November 16, 2011
St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights
Today we are going to leave the fun and excitement of Branson’s live entertainment behind and head south to warmer weather in the Sunshine State as we explore the nation’s oldest city during St. Augustine’s 18th Annual Nights of Lights festival. Listed by AAA as one of the 12 best places in the United States to experience holiday cheer and one of the Top 100 Events in the U.S. by the American Bus Association, the Nights of Lights festival is a two-month long celebration of the holiday season where millions of white lights cast a magical spell on the city.
Beginning on Nov. 19 and running through Jan. 31, 2012, the festival features more than 30 events including gallery strolls, parades, concerts and tours, all of which are taking place only minutes away from Festiva’s Ocean Gate Resort. Be sure to check out the full schedule of events here.
Tracing its origins back to the Spanish tradition of displaying a lighted white candle during the Christmas season, the entire town including historic buildings are adorned with millions of white lights, creating an unparalleled magical holiday atmosphere. See the official lighting of the city on Nov. 20 at Light-Up Night. Arrive at the Plaza de la
Constitucion at 4 p.m. to the sound of live music and the aroma of roasting nuts. At 6:30 p.m. the mayor will illuminate the historic district with the flick of a switch as more than 2 millions white lights are turned on for the first time. Once the streets are softly aglow it’s time for guests to enjoy meandering about the shops and restaurants while they enjoy the echo of holiday music. Of course, one of the best ways to experience the lights of St. Augustine is with a guided tour aboard a trolley, train or horse-drawn carriage. The nighttime tours are led by storytellers in period clothing and take guests through the narrow brick-laden streets and past historic sites, all adorned with classic white lights.
From Nov. 26 until Jan. 1, 2012 keep the children entertained with a visit to the Winter Wonderland located at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Winter Wonderland, the perfect family destination during Nights of Lights, has the area’s only outdoor ice skating rink as well as an ice slide and Blizzard Bounce. Children can stroll through the interactive Elf Village and test their skills in a variety of Reindeer Games before making their way to deliver their wish list to Santa Claus. Be sure to bundle up for a unique chance to see snow in Florida as the ice rink and Elf Village are showered nightly at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., creating a magical experience for all.
The weekend of Dec. 3-4 there will be plenty of excitement as two of the main events will be taking place downtown.
The 57th Annual St. Augustine Christmas Parade will begin Saturday at 10 a.m. and will feature a variety of marching bands, floats, horses and the arrival of Santa Claus. On Saturday the 37th Annual British Encampment and Grande Illumination will take place at 9 a.m. in downtown with the Grande Illumination and British Night Watch Parade at 8 p.m. The parade invites everyone to bring a candle or lantern and march the streets with a British regiment and drum line.
Visitors to St. Augustine during the Nights of Lights Festival will also enjoy a large selection of world-class chamber music to choose from. The EMMA Concert Association will host multiple main events at the Flagler College Auditorium, including the popular Jacksonville Symphony Ochestra HOLIDAY POPS concert series on Dec. 14 and 15 at 8 p.m. Join the symphony as they add a twist on old and new favorites alike, but be sure to order tickets ahead of time as the concerts are sure to sell out
November 14, 2011
Branson’s 23rd Annual Ozark Mountain Christmas
In our last blog we took a glance at some of the exciting seasonal happenings in the historic town of Charleston, S.C. Today we are going to head to the Midwest and discover some of the best holiday entertainment options in another one of Festiva’s vacation destinations, Branson, M.O. Home to the Cabins at Green Mountain, Stormy Point Village and Peppertree Thousand Hills, Branson is known as the Live Entertainment Capital of the World and during Nov. and Dec. an extra heaping of holiday cheer is added to the already amazing lineup of entertainment options during the Ozark Mountain Christmas.
Starting Nov.1 and running through Dec. 31, the 24th Annual Ozark Mountain Christmas is a community-wide
celebration of the holiday season that includes millions of lights, star-studded production shows, theme park festivals and unparalleled outlet shopping. With such a variety of festive activities it is clear to see why the USA Today, A&E Network and the Wall Street Journal have all recognized Branson and the Ozark Mountain Christmas as an outstanding holiday vacation destination not to be missed.
While the Ozark Mountain Christmas presents many excellent entertainment options, it is the lighting displays that have brought the celebration the most notoriety over the 
years, and best of all there are two main displays. Located off Shepherd of the Hills Expressway and Roark Valley Road, the Branson Area Festival of Lights is known as one of the most impressive displays in the country. Store fronts and businesses are adorned with millions of lights while more than 175 interactive displays come to life along the one mile journey. Just as impressive is the two and a half mile Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights. Millions of lights and displays illuminate the forest as you drive though the 160 acre Shepherd of the Hills Homestead before ending up at the Inspiration Tower. Draped with lights, the 230-foot tall observation tower resembles a Christmas tree and provides a birds-eye view of Branson aglow.
Another main draw of the Ozark Mountain Christmas is the Adoration Parade. Now in its 63rd year, the event will
be held on Sunday Dec. 5 in historic downtown Branson. The event starts at 5 p.m. with the lighting of the nativity scene atop Branson Mountain with the parade following directly after. Three stages along the parade route will feature live music and performances from local bands and stage companies. Be sure to arrive early as the Adoration Parade is one of Branson’s favorite events and with a scheduled appearance by Santa and his Reindeer the crowd is sure to be plentiful.
Branson’s most popular attraction, Silver Dollar City, also hosts its biggest festival of the year during the Ozark 
Mountain Christmas celebration. Listed as one of the top five holiday events in the country by both Good Morning America and CNN, Silver Dollar City’s An Olde Time Christmas features millions of lights, a stage performance of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol and countless seasonal delights like hickory-smoked prime rib, roasted turkey and gingerbread cookies. Weather permitting all of the rides will stay open during the festival.
