What should I do in Cherokee, North Carolina this fall and winter? It’s the ideal time of year to visit our lovely mountain village for a tranquil holiday. Leave the planning to us while you pack your baggage. You’ll want to stay a few nights or more to make the most of your trip with these nine enjoyable, family-friendly things to do this season. There is always something going on in Cherokee, regardless of the season, and we can even assist you in finding the ideal accommodations. The whole family may have fun at yearly events including the Cherokee PRCA Rodeo, Cherokee County Fair, and Kee Live Music Festival. You won’t find cultural events like the Cherokee Community Theater and Cherokee Symphony in other towns of our size.
1. Christmas Parade:
The Christmas Parade in Cherokee is a well-loved annual custom to usher in the season. The parade starts at 2:30 pm. to 4 p.m., but be sure to be there early to get a position. You might also want to bring camping chairs and bags to gather candy that passing floats will toss. 15 minutes prior to the parade, all parking along the route and in the neighborhood will end, and roads won’t reopen until the procession’s conclusion.
2. Cherokee PRCA Rodeo:
Every summer, the Cherokee Chamber PRCA Rodeo attracts tens of thousands of rodeo fans to the Cherokee County Fairgrounds. The weekend following Memorial Day is the time for this yearly celebration. The largest supplier of rodeo animals in the region and a local company, Barnes PRCA Rodeo, has been active in rodeo for almost 50 years. Take in kid’s activities, western vendors, Rodeo Queens, a Western BBQ at the Depot, and a sizable parade through Cherokee in addition to three evenings of top-notch rodeo entertainment.
3. Stone State Park Ground:
The picturesque Stone State Park, located in the heart of Western Iowa’s Loess Hills, offers visitors not only miles and miles of trails dotted with prairie grass to explore but also first-rate campsites for the night. There are also a number of heated and air-conditioned cabins available for rental. There is much to discover at Stone State Park Campground and Cabins outside of the sleeping accommodations, whether you zip up the tent or stay inside.
4. The Museum of the Cherokee Indian:
Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indians to learn about the 11,000-year-old Cherokee legend and see cutting-edge exhibits created by Disney Imagineers. Enjoy Cherokee Heritage Day, a monthly event featuring free cultural events like traditional dancing, storytelling, cultural arts display, genealogy classes, hands-on craft workshops, and more on Saturday, December 8 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The museum is open every day of the year, with the exception of Christmas and New Year’s Day. 9 a.m. is when winter hours (September–May) start. Monday through Sunday, till 5 p.m.
5. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual:
The oldest Native American cooperative in the nation, Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc., employs approximately 350 juried craftsmen who produce a wide range of traditional Cherokee goods, including jewelry, pottery, baskets, and masks. Look through their amazing collection of paintings and find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list! Don’t miss the gallery behind the chicken coop, which features ceramics, wood carvings, and baskets made by renowned Cherokee artists over the years. All year long, Qualla is open, but it is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. The winter hours are 8 a.m. (September to May). Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; and in January and February, Sundays are closed.
6. Take a Sun Chase at Water Rock Knob:
Water rock Knob Overlook is located at milepost 451.2 along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is the second-highest point there. The summit of Water Rock Knob, which was named for the creek where hunters and farmers collected water, can be reached by a one-mile roundtrip trail. The circular parking lot allows you to see both east and west vistas regardless of whether you arrive in time for sunrise or dusk.
7. The ultimate Entertainment Destination:
If you’re seeking entertainment in Sioux City, look no further than the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City, which is the area’s biggest attraction. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in downtown Sioux City offers a musical getaway. All year long, Anthem features the best emerging and illustrious acts. With the stellar lineup at Battery Park’s outdoor concert venue, the summer months are even hotter.
Best New Year’s Eve Activities in Iowa
Family-friendly Iowa offers a wide range of fun New Year’s Eve events and locations for revelers of all ages to enjoy. Celebrate the beginning of the year with glow skating, paint parties, mansion parties, breathtaking resorts, and stunning vineyards, all of which offer one-of-a-kind and amazing experiences. This New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the following events taking place all throughout Iowa for delectable foods, live entertainment, and more.
New Year’s Eve at Gypsy Highway, Davenport, IA:
Gypsy Highway, a restaurant known for its inventive American meals with a Thai twist, puts on a great New Year’s Eve celebration with a delectable meal, party favors, live entertainment, and champagne in a vibrant, festive setting. This Asian-fusion, motorcycle-themed bar is known for its Gypsy drinks, legendary Gypsy crab boil, and unforgettable family outings.
New Year’s Celebration at the Merrill Hotel, Muscatine, IA:
The Merrill Hotel in downtown Muscatine is hosting a lavish New Year’s celebration in the Mississippi ballroom. Enjoy a night of hilarious comedy and music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. A hidden gem, the award-winning boutique hotel is a great place to treat yourself.