Last Updated on November 12, 2026 2:11 pm
Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, will celebrate the arrival of this year’s holiday tree at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery on Friday, Nov. 20.
The hour-long event begins at 11 a.m. and is included with park admission. The tree is from Mountain Top Fraser Fir farm in Newland, N.C. Owner Larry Smith has previously supplied trees to the White House, North Carolina State Capitol and other prominent government buildings and residences.
Grandfather’s mascot, Millie the Bear, will escort this year’s tree through the park’s entrance gate and up the park road to the Wilson Center. There, visitors can take part in snowflake-themed crafts and enjoy some hot chocolate and candy canes.
“The holiday tree adds a touch of seasonal magic to Grandfather Mountain, creating a memorable winter experience for guests of all ages,” said Seth Yarber, facilities coordinator for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “We invite visitors to experience this special tradition for themselves and see how the mountain comes alive with holiday spirit.”
The full schedule for the celebration is below.
- 11 a.m. | Millie the Bear escorts the tree through the Grandfather Mountain Entrance Gate. Guests are welcome to park at an overlook or parking lot along the road to wave to Millie as she and the tree make their way up to the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery!
- 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Hot Chocolate and Candy Cane Bar and Snowflake Craft Table open at the Wilson Center.
- 11:10 a.m. | Millie and the tree arrive at the Wilson Center. (Guests are also invited to help welcome Millie and the tree at this location!)
- 11:10 a.m. | Tree is carried into the Wilson Center.
- 11:15 – 11:30 a.m. | Millie is available to “meet and greet” guests!
For more information on this year’s tree delivery at Grandfather Mountain, visit www.grandfather.com/holiday-tree-arrival.
The nonprofit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation strives to inspire conservation of the natural world through education, exploration and example. For more information, visit www.grandfather.com.
📷 Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
