Local pick:Ombre insulated stackable tumbler | $26.95 | This cup from Pirani isn’t just pretty — it keeps drinks freezing cold or steaming hot for the long haul.
Frustrated golfer socks | $12.99 | This No. 1 best-selling pair of men’s novelty socks is sure to get a laugh.
Gifts for people who have everything
Olive oil mister | $9.99 | A handy gift they can use to turn oil into a fine mist or a steady drizzle.
Gifts for book lovers
Local pick: Custom book box | $34.99+ | Share your loved one’s favorite genre and hobbies and Read Me Unconditionally will put together the perfect book package.
Alpaca Wonderland - Winter Artisan Market | 12-5 p.m. | Durrant Farms Estate, Leicester | Free | Celebrate the season with a magical day on the farm, featuring unique local gifts, holiday treats, and plenty of alpaca cheer.*
Our team recently visited to check out this year’s seasonal splendor. The number one thing we learned?An Annual Pass is the best way to keep the magic going, and you can score one for $90 off during the holiday sale. Passholders enjoy unlimited visits year-round, and lots of special discounts on exhibits + experiences.
Make a reservation to visit Biltmore now through Sunday, Jan. 4, to step inside a Hallmark movie. Did you know “A Biltmore Christmas” was filmed on-site?
Congratulations to the 190+ students graduating at today’s UNC Asheville Fall 2025 Commencement. As you enter a new chapter of life, some sage advice from local leaders can help guide you.
Holiday
The evening of Sunday, Dec. 14 marks the beginning of Hanukkah — the Jewish Festival of Lights. The Chabad House of Asheville is hosting a community menorah lighting on Sunday at 4 p.m. in Biltmore Park Town Square.
Eat
Flour’s Focaccia Sandwich Shop may be gone, but the scrumptious sandwiches are returning for one day each week at Easy Tiger, the new sports bar from the Flour crew. This “Focaccia Friday,” grab a sandwich with chicken cutlet, prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, arugula, and Calabrian chili aioli.
Opening
The “fancy McDonald’s” in Biltmore Village reopens this morning after a post-Helene renovation. To celebrate, Santa and a live pianist will be on site during breakfast tomorrow, Dec. 13 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (WLOS)
Shop
We added even more holiday markets to our December Plan Ahead, helping you navigate all the biggest events of the season. With many markets this weekend, make a plan to pick up local gifts for everyone on your list.
Film
If “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is on your watchlist this December, you’re in good company. The 1989 film is the most popular holiday film in NC, per a new PixlParade report. Pro tip: Fuel your movie night with takeout from a new local restaurant.
Your glasses called — they’re ready for retirement. Shop Zenni’s durable frames + advanced lenses for an upgrade, with most pairs under $80. Bonus: Take an extra 10% off with code TWW.*
Community
A new WNC hospital could be on the way — and your voice matters. With a public hearing on Dec. 16, here’s what to know about Novant Health’s plans, how the CON process actually works, and the simple ways you can get involved in shaping local healthcare. Learn more.*
Older Adults
Are you taking advantage of these stellar senior discounts? From savings with Walgreens to a discounted Amazon Prime membership, we found 20 hacks all older adults should know about to continue saving and building wealth.*
Category
Food
Around the world in 80 plates
Admire this flavor-packed Indian fare. | Photo via @laila_asheville
One of the main attractions for international travel is tasting diverse cuisines, but you can do the same without leaving Asheville.
Here’s how to travel the world with your taste buds.
Colombia | Juanchos Fonda, 2619 Sweeten Creek Rd. | This spot has quickly become a local favorite, especially for the gluten-free folks. Everything is delicious, especially with heaping spoonfuls of chimichurri on top.
Ethiopia | Addissae, 48 Commerce St. | The Michelin-recommended downtown spot boasts a flavorful menu of various meat and vegan options, cooked in unique spice blends with plenty of ginger and garlic.
Honduras | El Aguila Honduran Kitchen | 221 Airport Rd. | Find Honduran street foods like baleadas and pupusas, as well as hearty traditional dishes including yuca con chicharrón.
India | Laila Asheville, 77 Biltmore Ave. | If indecision gets the best of you, the daily lunch buffet is filled with everything from appetizers to desserts. But when it comes to Indian cuisine, we’re spoiled with choice — Chai Pani, Mehfil, Mela, and Big Tikka are all located downtown.
Google Trends data shows that December typically brings about an increased interest in baking at home. If you want to prepare your own goodies in the kitchen this holiday season, try out this doughnut recipe from Ivory Road.
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