Festival of Lights at Deerwoode Reserve

A Storybook Christmas takes over Deerwoode Reserve, where cabins glow with light displays that local businesses and schools have decorated as holiday tales. Stroll the grounds, vote for your favorite cabin, then settle in around the fire to roast s’mores with a cup of hot chocolate or cider.

Families can play cornhole, try mini axe throwing and join reindeer games in the Family Village while kids make crafts and visit with farm animals. Santa and Mrs. Claus hold court inside the main lodge, and live music from local schools, churches and community groups keeps the mood festive. Each night has its own dress-up theme, from pajamas to ugly Christmas sweaters.

All proceeds benefit The Family Place of Transylvania County, which works to build community and strengthen families.