There’s just something special about Thanksgiving in the mountains…the crisp air, colorful leaves still hanging on the trees, and the smell of woodsmoke drifting through the valleys make it feel truly magical. It’s the time of year for slowing down, gathering with loved ones, and enjoying a cozy meal together (with plenty of seconds, of course).
Every year, families debate whose turn it is to host, who’s cooking the turkey, and who’s doing the dishes. But what if you switched things up this time? Instead of the usual at-home hustle, imagine celebrating Thanksgiving in Asheville. A NC mountain Thanksgiving is an incredible way to gather the family together and make the kind of special memories that will last a lifetime.
The perks of a getaway Thanksgiving are endless. No one has to stress about cleaning the house or setting the table just right (our vacation rentals are spotless and fully stocked), everyone has room to relax, and you can wake up to sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. What could be better than that?!
Whether you’re bringing the whole family for a destination Thanksgiving or sneaking away for a peaceful mountain retreat, Asheville is the perfect backdrop. In this guide, we’ll share some of our favorite ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in Asheville — from top dining options to fun local events and post-holiday shopping.
Where to Eat on Thanksgiving in Asheville
If cooking a full Thanksgiving meal isn’t on your wish list this year, you’re in luck. Many Asheville restaurants open their doors for the holiday, with creative spins on traditional favorites and locally inspired menus. For those seeking a restaurant-made meal for the day, you're in the right place! We’ve put together an entire list of the best places to eat on Thanksgiving in Asheville for you to check out so you can have an absolutely delicious holiday.
Some of the top choices on the list include the following:
The Blackbird
Where: 47 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC
When: 10 AM–8 PM on Thanksgiving
What: Three-course Thanksgiving menu with options like Candy Roaster Bisque, Sage-Brined Smoked Turkey, and Pecan Pie Bread Pudding. Kids’ menu available.
Fork Lore
Where: 43 Town Square Blvd, Asheville, NC
When: Breakfast 6:30–11 AM; Thanksgiving meal 11:30 AM–4 PM; limited menu 4–9 PM
What: Family-style Thanksgiving meal served midday. Reservations recommended (828-209-2715).
Glass Onion Tavern
Where: 18 N Main St, Weaverville, NC
When: Noon–5 PM on Thanksgiving
What: Traditional Thanksgiving dinner plus full menu. Reservations open Nov 1.
Moose Cafe
Where: 570 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC
When: 11 AM–4 PM on Thanksgiving
What: Dine-in or take-out meals with Roast Turkey, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Green Beans, and Sweet Potato Soufflé.
Take It To-Go:
Maybe you don't want to do all the cooking, but you still like the sound of someone else doing the cooking for you. Our guide has a list of the best to-go meal options, too! Here are a few favorites:
Beradu
Where: 2 E Market St, Suite A-B, Black Mountain, NC
When: Wed, Nov 26, 1–6 PM
What: Pre-order Whole Turkeys, classic sides like Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Charcuterie Boards with imported cheeses and cured meats.
Red Fiddle Vittles
Where: 1800 Hendersonville Rd, Asheville, NC
When: Order by Wed, Nov 19; pickup Wed, Nov 26, 10 AM–5 PM
What: Holiday menu includes Joyce Farms Turkey, Glazed Ham, Roasted Quail, and Stuffed Baby Pumpkins, plus sides, salads, and desserts.
Sunny Point Cafe
Where: 626 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC
When: Pickup Tues, Nov 25, or Wed, Nov 26, 9 AM–2 PM at Rabbit Hole Bakery
What: Thanksgiving meal for 6 ($275) includes Spinach and Crab Dips, Roasted Turkey Breast, classic sides, Apple Slab Pie, and heating instructions.
Luella’s Bar-B-Que
Where: 501 Merrimon Ave (North) & 33 Town Square Blvd, Suite 110 (South, Biltmore Park)
When: Choose pickup for Mon–Wed before Thanksgiving
What: Thank-Fully Complete Meal with Cider-Brined Smoked Turkey, three sides, dessert, and gravy (serves 12–14). Other mains like Brisket, Ribeye Roast, and Tempeh Wings also available.
Asheville Fall Events Around Thanksgiving
There’s so much to do around Thanksgiving in Asheville! From turkey trots to early holiday markets, here are some local happenings to check out during your stay.
Asheville Turkey Trot
Start your holiday with a little exercise and mountain scenery at the annual Asheville Turkey Trot!
When: Thursday, November 27, 2025, 9 a.m.
Where: Downtown Asheville (Pack Square Park)
Distance: 5K
Biltmore Estate Christmas Kickoff
Thanksgiving weekend marks the beginning of Christmas at Biltmore, complete with dazzling trees, lights, and the famous Candlelight Evenings.
When: Starting November 1, 2025
Where: Biltmore Estate
Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
Take an evening stroll through the Arboretum’s glowing gardens filled with thousands of sparkling lights, a must-see tradition for all ages!
When: November 15, 2025-January 4, 2026
Where: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville
Holiday Shopping in Asheville
Once the turkey is carved and the leftovers are packed away, it’s time for some retail therapy! Black Friday and Small Business Saturday are a big deal in Asheville — but here, it’s all about supporting local makers and mountain artisans.
Explore downtown Asheville, Biltmore Village, or the River Arts District, where you’ll find everything from handmade pottery and jewelry to unique home décor and local wines. It’s a great way to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts while experiencing Asheville’s creative spirit.
Find the Perfect Asheville Vacation Rental
Thinking about bringing the whole crew along for the holiday? Great! Our Greybeard Rentals catalog has plenty of spacious homes, cozy cabins, and mountain lodges that can accommodate families big and small. Check out our collection of large group rentals for a property big enough for your whole family! From properties with hot tubs and fireplaces to rentals near downtown or tucked away in the woods, you’ll find something everyone can enjoy.
Book Your Thanksgiving Stay in Asheville Directly with Greybeard Rentals!
Have we convinced you to join us for Thanksgiving yet? We really can't emphasize enough how truly magical Asheville is around this time of year. Plus, when you book your stay directly with Greybeard, you'll save time, money, and stress. It's a win/win situation! With so many gorgeous homes to choose from in our extensive catalog of vacation rentals, we know you'll have the best Asheville Thanksgiving ever. Check our our full selection now and book your stay here directly with Greybeard!