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 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 the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains?
Eat, Drink, and Be Marion
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 37th Annual Appalachian Potters Market will take place on Saturday, December 6th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at McDowell High School. This annual event is known for its wide variety of offerings from some of the most talented artisans in 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-fashioned 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 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, your family, and friends, packed with plenty of everything.
Flavors on Main General Store will make it super easy to check off most any item on your holiday shopping list. An extraordinarily 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!
Phoenix on Main is a new vintage boutique on Main Street in Marion, offering a unique selection of curated antiques, retro clothing, and handmade jewelry featuring gems sourced from Emerald Village!
Old Fort Festivities
The Davis Country Store and Cafe offers unique, locally made goods. Head here to pick up locally sourced, homemade treats (great for making gift baskets!). Plus, the cafe is the perfect excuse to slow down and sit a spell for a delicious lunch. Arrowhead Gallery & Studios is the answer for that "artsy" friend or family member in your life. The gallery offers gift cards towards gallery items or classes, and showcases some of the best local art in the region.
The Common Pine has also reopened and is stocked with a variety of perfect gift-giving ideas. You'll make quick work of finding something for everyone on your list. And for the outdoor enthusiast, Waterways Kayaks has reopened.
While in town, both Seeker Coffee and Hillman Beer are open and ready for your visit.
