Shop 'Til You Drop

Christmas in November

Christmas in November
November 8 » Valdese

Find more than 35 artists’ wares at this event that features strictly handmade items like soaps, jewelry, upcycled art, and repurposed home décor. In addition to door prizes and refreshments, there are complimentary totes for the first 250 shoppers. Entry is $1 or a canned food donation for Burke United Christian Ministries. Old Rock School, 400 Main St. W.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; (828) 879-2120; townofvaldese.com

Cullowhee’s Hard Candy Christmas; Andrea Kulish’s pysanky eggs at RAD Studio Stroll

WNC Holiday Fair
November 16-18 >> Fletcher

This event showcases hundreds of primarily handcrafted goods from more than 200 vendors. Find unique wood crafts, pottery, photography, jewelry, and more among the 45,000 square feet of shopping space. Enjoy holiday fare and opportunities for pictures with Santa as well. >> WNC Agricultural Center, 761 Boylston Hwy.; Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; $5 for adults, free children under 12; wncholidayfair.net

RAD Studio Stroll
November 10 & 11 » Asheville

In the mile-long River Arts District you’ll encounter special events, demos, and the chance to shop for eclectic, one-of-a-kind pieces from more than 200 artists working in glass, wood, metal, and other mediums. Attendees are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items in support of MANNA FoodBank. Don’t worry about parking—it’s free, as is the trolley. 14 Riverside Dr.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; (828) 552-4723; riverartsdistrict.com

Marshall Handmade Market
November 17 & 18 » Marshall

Held in a 1920s historic brick schoolhouse-turned-artist-studios on Blannahassett Island, this holiday market is a great opportunity to buy direct from some of Madison County’s most talented makers. Handmade items include letterpress prints, leather goods, ceramics, paintings, and apothecary arts. Live entertainment and fare from OWL Bakery and Bun Intended food truck add to the merriment. Marshall High Studios, 115 Blannahassett Island Rd.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; marshallhandmade@gmail.com; marshallhandmade.com

Hard Candy Christmas Art & Craft Show
November 23 » Cullowhee

Handcrafted goods from 100 artists across the Southeast, including heritage and leather crafts, folk art, vintage Christmas ornaments, and pottery, are available at this craft fair. Complimentary refreshments and live music round out the festivities. Western Carolina University, Ramsey Center, 92 Catamount Rd.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; $5, free children under 12; (828) 524-3405; mountainartisans.net

Papertown Christmas and Craft Fair
December 1 >> Canton

Find baskets, canned jams and jellies, home décor, pottery, quilts, and more at this event that focuses exclusively on handmade crafts. Booth rental fees go to the Backpack Project, an initiative that gives food to hungry children in Haywood County. >> Canton Armory, 71 Penland St.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Christmas Craft Fair
December 1 >> Sparta

It’s all about local and handmade at this event, which features 35 vendors and a variety of crafts, including toys, photography, baked goods, and fresh greenery like wreaths. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. >> Emerson Black Exhibition Building at Justice Carlisle Higgins Fairgrounds and Agricultural Center, 1375 US 21 N.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; sparta-nc.com/christmas_craft_fair.php

Christmas in the Mountains
December 2 >> Robbinsville

Look for repurposed wood art, pottery, cheese, skincare made with local honey, and more at this indoor art and craft show. And don't worry about the kids being bored while you shop—there's a cookie-decorating table to keep them busy. >> Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, 121 Schoolhouse Rd.; Sunday, 9-4:00 pm; (828) 479-3364; stecoahvalleycenter.com

Folk School Fireside Sale
December 2 » Brasstown

Held in the historic Keith House and Davidson Hall on John C. Campbell Folk School’s campus, you’ll find the wares of more than 300 students and area artisans here. Browse works in forged iron, weaving, alpaca fleece apparel, turned wood items, and quilts. The school’s Craft Shop offers 15 percent off its handmade wares from November 23 to December 24. John C. Folk School, 1 Folk School Rd.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; (800) 365-5724; folkschool.org

Hometown Christmas
December 7 >> Saluda

Saluda’s charming Main Street transforms into a seasonal shopping oasis as downtown businesses stay open late and offer special sales. Peruse unique clothing, locally made pottery, art, jewelry, and more while sipping complimentary cider and hot chocolate and listening to carolers. >> 6 E. Main St.; Friday, 6-8 pm; saluda.com/hometown-christmas

Dillsboro Lights & Luminaries
December 7 & 8, 14 & 15 >> Dillsboro

Downtown Dillsboro is resplendent with more than 2000 Christmas lights, and downtown businesses will stay open late and offer complimentary refreshments as you browse handmade crafts, specialty Christmas items, and clothing. Singers and musicians will be performing as well. Parking is free and shuttle service is provided. >> 52 Front St.; Friday & Saturday, 5-9 p.m.

Blowing Rock's Holiday Stroll

Holiday Stroll
December 8 » Blowing Rock

Amble through the adorable hamlet of Blowing rock while you shop for pottery, clothing, candles, outdoor gear, jewelry—even your Christmas tree—at this town-wide holiday open house. Adding to the festivities will be strolling carolers, a showing of the Polar Express movie in the Martin House Courtyard, and complimentary refreshments from participating shops. Santa will also be available for pictures. After dark, cruise or mosey through Chetola Resort to enjoy its twinkling Festival of Lights display. Downtown; Saturday, 5-8 p.m.; free; (828) 295-7851; blowingrock.com/holidaystroll