Thursday, October 1, 2026
®
The World's Local News Source®
Forest City, NC (WNN) - We've arrived at the last place in the Christmas lights article series of 2025. One that's become a tradition for many to walk through, which, after reading, you may see why.
Lastly, fourth on my list, we have Downtown Forest City, North Carolina, which has been lit up since November 27th and will remain on display until January 1st.
One thing Forest City is famous for is stringing over one million Christmas lights along its Main Street each year, and it is often referred to as the #1 Christmas Town in the Greater Asheville area.
Some of the many Christmas Lights in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
There are many activities to enjoy when visiting the town. These include carriage rides, hayrides, ice skating, and meet-and-greets with Santa and the Grinch. One thing to note about carriage rides is that they sell out quickly, so it is best to purchase them in advance.
A family on a carriage ride in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
The hayrides take 24 people 6 times an hour. This year, they've been sold out all month. They are $3 per person and run from 6 pm to 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. They've become so popular that people come from all over to ride on it, including from New York and Charleston.
Visitors getting on the hayride in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Also, when walking downtown, you'll hear Christmas music all around outside—making it feel that much more festive for the holiday season.
Two popular Restaurants you'll see downtown are the Copper Penny and the Hoot Nannie. Both are good restaurants to eat at and are not horribly pricey. As with most restaurants, it's recommended to arrive early unless you are willing to wait an hour or more, as they tend to get busy when visitors come to see the lights.
The outside of the Copper Penny Grill in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
One shop downtown that's always a go-to place for many is the Pie Safe Bakery. They sell mini cheesecakes, cookies, and, as the name suggests, pies. All baked goods that you'll see inside are made from scratch. No matter the line, I'd recommend going because, no matter what you get, it will be worth it.
A sign for the Pie Safe in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
There are plenty of stores that sell shirts, Christmas Ornaments, etc, so if you need a last-minute gift, look no further than the shops downtown.
A Forest City T-shirt in Smith Drugs of Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
If you're someone who loves to take photos to capture memories, you'll have plenty of chances to do so in town. One of the many places visitors take photos is a lit-up giant walk-through Christmas ornament. It makes a beautiful backdrop for photos. And right behind it is a lovely Christmas tree, where there is also an opportunity to take a picture.
The lit-up Christmas Ornament that visitors take photos under in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Also, down the road, near a bank, there are beautifully painted angel wings on a wall, which is another excellent spot for a photo opportunity. The side says 'Forest City,' so visitors can remember where it was taken and cherish that memory for a long time.
The angel wings on the wall in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Depending on when you choose to visit, you'll also have the opportunity to take photos with the Grinch or Santa. When I went, I was able to witness the Grinch handing out candy to the kids and taking pictures with them.
The Grinch handing out candy to children in Forest City. December 20th,2025
Lauren Ramsey (WNN)
Downtown Forest City is located at 128 N Powell St, Forest City, NC 28043. It is about 37 minutes from Cherryville and 75 minutes from Charlotte heading west. However, the distance may vary depending on your location. It is worth the trip; everyone in town does a good job keeping the Christmas spirit alive each year.
With that being said, this concludes my Christmas lights article series for 2025. I hope our readers enjoyed them as much as I liked seeing and writing about them. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, everyone!
For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork
Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com
North Carolina Press Association Member
©️Copyright 2025 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.
