Asheville Reporter

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) is gearing up for its annual Holly Jolly Holidays series, offering a range of events designed to bring the community together during the festive season. The program includes various activities throughout December, catering to different age groups and interests.

Starting the week of December 2, families with young children can attend "Rookie Readers: Holidays, Winter & Snow" at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center. This free event combines storytelling with themed crafts for toddlers. Teenagers can participate in a "Candy Cane Flashlight Hunt" at Murphy-Oakley Community Center, while younger children have the opportunity to enjoy "Youth Glow Climbing" at Tempie Avery Montford Community Center for a small fee.

The week also features a "Holiday Lights & Cozy Movie Night" and a puzzle competition called "Puzzle Palooza: Holiday Edition," both hosted at Burton Street Community Center.

For the week of December 9, APR has arranged several events including personal calls from Santa for children aged 3-6 and a "White & Silver Bells Brunch" for those aged 50 and above at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center. A "Therapeutic Recreation Holiday Sip & Paint" will be held at Murphy-Oakley Community Center for individuals with disabilities.

On December 13, Harrah’s Cherokee Center Asheville will transform into a skate rink for one night only as part of the "Holiday Skate Jam." Additionally, Stephens-Lee Community Center will host "Breakfast with Santa," requiring advance registration.

During the week of December 16, activities include another session of Rookie Readers and a "Jingle Bell Toddler Party" at Stephens-Lee Community Center. An Elf on a Shelf Party and Holiday Cookie Exchange are planned at Grove Street Community Center.

In the final days leading up to Christmas, APR offers an extensive Holiday Camp running from December 23 through January 3 across multiple locations including Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center and Tempie Avery Montford Community Center.

Residents are encouraged to explore more opportunities by browsing Asheville Parks & Recreation programs online or subscribing to their monthly newsletter.