Although Highlands is usually thought of as a summer resort, the winter has its own special charm.  Gone are the crowds of summer, replaced by quiet, laid-back days and  nights full of brilliant stars.  Most years there are several snows and nothing is more beautiful than those flakes blanketing the earth, returning the landscape to a state of purity and innocence. The winter silence after a snow is amazing.  It’s wonderful to just walk out my road and the only sound I hear is of my boots crunching in the snow.

If we have a long cold snap, sometimes there is ice skating on local lakes. Winter hiking can be fun, too, but you must dress warmly in layers for it.  And things do go on.  The Bascom is open year-round for workshops and classes.  The Highlands-Cashiers Players do several plays during the off-season.  “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” starts February 23^rd and runs through March 3^rd.  The Ugly Dog Pub features bluegrass on Wednesday nights and a Story Swap on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month by local writers and storytellers.  Many restaurants are open with more limited hours.

Come try it out sometime, but don’t tell everyone, okay?  We don’t want it to be just like the summer.  The cold may scare a lot of people off, but this winter has been especially mild.  We’re not complaining about that, either.

This blog was contributed by Betty Holt.   For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, contact Meadows Mountain Realty broker, Betty Holt at 828-526-4101.   For access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today,  or email us today at betty@meadowsmtnrealty.com or info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.    

We attended a charrette this evening after work at the Highlands Community Building on Poplar Street.    This was a public meeting of the Small Town Main Street Branding and Wayfinding Project for Highlands.   The public was encouraged to come and share their thoughts and feelings on what identity they feel best represents Highlands in order for this project to truly be a town effort.   An online survey on the Town of Highlands Website at www.highlandsnc.org was available for participants and those unable to attend to have their input.   

In 2009, Highlands won a position on the North Carolina Small Town Main Street Program to help us improve the look of our downtown and to promote its identity.   Last year the program was making progress when the State cut the budget.   Despite that financial set back, the Town Board felt that this was such an important program voted to continue and fund the project.  

About 40 Highlanders attended, some who were born and raised in Highlands, others like us, who chose Highlands for their home.  The  first questions for consideration was “If you had to tell someone who had never been here, about Highlands in 15 minutes, what would you say?”    The interactive discussion seemed to focus on two main aspects of life in Highlands – the natural wonders of the area, including waterfalls and mountains, and the cultural venues which abound in our community.   Many spoke to the warm and welcoming spirit of the people in Highlands.

A second topic of discussion centered around signage in the community.  Opinions ranged from those who preferred to remove as many signs as possible not only within the Town limits but along the gateways to Highlands as well to those who felt that we needed not only ”welcome” signs but signs which help visitors find their way around Town.    There definitely was consensus on what we do not want for Highlands – to become overly commercialized like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee. 

Local historian Ran Shaffner says. “It’s important that the community feel a sense of pride and ownership for this project to be Town effort..”    The group has met with business and government leaders and will visit many of the venues in Highlands over the next two days.   On Wednesday afternoon, a public meeting will be held at the Civic Center to share the findings and offer suggestions for signage, logos and artwork for use in promoting our community.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Maggie the Cat will heat up the cold evenings in Highlands as the Highlands-Cashiers Players set the stage for “Cat on A Hot Tin Roof” slated for February 23rd through 26th and March 2nd – 4th at the Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center.   The winner of the 1955 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, this play is one of the finest examples of southern genre theatre.  The finely drawn characters and compelling dialoge has made the play a theatre lovers favorite even a half century after it’s debut.

We all remember the movie version featuring Elizabeth Taylor, Paul Newman and Burl Ives and  embrace the genius of  iconic playwright Tennessee Williams.  The play is thought provoking as it tackles the difficulty of family communication and the way we deal with those closest to us.   

The play is sponsored in part by local radio station WHLC with evening performances at 7:30 pm  and Sunday Matinees at 2:30 pm.   The Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center is located at 507 Chestnut Street in Highlands.  For ticket information call 828.526.8084 or visit their website at www.highlandscashiersplayers.org.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866.526.3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Anyone in Highlands North Carolina is invited and encouraged to spend the holiday season counting birds. Birding is but one of the many activities available in Highlands NC, and one which avid birders take quite seriously. An annual event across the country is the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, when bird numbers and species are counted and catalog from coast to coast and everywhere in between.

The lovely, natural setting of Highlands North Carolina lends itself effortlessly to bird watching. Those willing and able to take part in the Christmas Bird Count can do so on December 16. The goal is to take note of all of the birds that you see within a 24 hour period. Whether you are a novice or an experienced birder you are welcome to participate. The cost is $5 and birders will convene at 7:00 am at the Highlands Library. Click here for more information.

Living in Highlands exposes residents and visitors to many outdoor activities as well as chances to get involved in the community. Contact me today to learn more about our unique area. In addition to providing access to all Highlands NC real estate that is currently listed for sale I can help you get to know why so many people return to Highlands year after year.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Highlands NC Real Estate and Meadows Mountain Realty

In Highlands North Carolina it is all about the holidays at this time of year.  Still full from Thanksgiving many have started their holiday shopping, others have already begun to decorate their Highlands homes, and others are simply taking in the cheer that is available at this time of year.  Saturday is a day filled with holiday festivities in Highlands, certain to put a smile on the faces of residents and visitors alike.

This Saturday, November 26, anyone in Highlands NC can participate in the annual lighting of the tree, meet Santa, or perhaps create an art project for someone special.  Whether you are feeling creative, festive, or both, you will certainly have a wonderful time in Highlands this weekend.

Saturday, November 26

• Santa will be available at the Highlands Visitor Center from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., and again after the tree lighting ceremony at 7:15 p.m.  This is a great opportunity for a photo, to whisper a wish in Santa’s ear, and to make a memory that will last a lifetime.
• The Highlands Annual Christmas Tree Lighting will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Highlands Methodist Church.  Fun for the whole family this annual event has singing, Santa, and a big beautiful tree!
• The Bascom has a variety of activities for all ages on Saturday.  From knitting and needlepoint to “Friends Around the Globe” children’s activities, there is always an opportunity to get hands-on at The Bascom.  In addition there is the ongoing Giving Trees exhibition and a marketplace to buy unique gifts.

Highlands North Carolina is a beautiful setting in which to live, and those who are lucky enough to visit our neck of the woods dream of returning.  Contact us today to learn about Highlands NC real estate opportunities, insuring your return to our unique quality of life and stunning mountain setting, again and again.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Halloween in Highlands NC is a real treat. Of course costumes are welcome and celebrations abound in our mountain community where everyone has an opportunity to celebrate Halloween in their own way.

On Saturday the Cyprus Restaurant will host the Cyprus Halloween Costume Party, with live music provided by Reggie Infinity and DJ Johnny O. All ages are welcome on the outside patio and there will be a variety of drink Specials. The music will begin at 9 pm, call 828-526-4429 for more information.

If you are looking for an artistic way to start Halloween evening, The Bascom will not disappoint with its Spooky Raku. Red pots will glow with the night sky as a backdrop. Costumes are a must to celebrate, and this is a great stop before heading to Main Street, to continue Halloween evening in Highlands NC.

Monday is Halloween day, a special time in downtown Highlands when Main Street will be blocked off to traffic and merchants have their doors open to welcome the costumed characters that wander past. This event is fun for all ages and is sponsored by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce.

Madison’s Restaurant is also joining in the Highlands Halloween fun, with a costume contest and great prizes. The Wine Garden Monster Bash will take place from 6 to 9 pm, with contest judging taking place at 8 pm. The Most Original costume will win a spa treatment at the Spa at Old Edwards, Best Couple will win dinner for two at Madison’s Restaurant. Call 828-787-2625 for more information.

Holidays are special events in Highlands NC. Contact us today to learn more about living in Highlands. Whether you are looking for a vacation home, an investment, or your dream home, we can help locate the Highlands NC real estate that best suits your needs.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Oktoberfest will kick off in Highlands NC tomorrow!  Oktoberfest is a Bavarian tradition involving music, dancing, beer, and food, signaling the arrival of Fall.  In Highlands NC Oktoberfest involves food and beer and so much more!  Oktoberfest takes place for the entire month of October at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, a tradition signaling the arrival of a beautiful new season, and special savings that come along with the change.

Oktoberfest is a perfect opportunity to visit Highlands NC and take advantage of luxurious spa packages, delectable dining deals, and of course some Bavarian style beer! Oktoberfest is about enjoying Highlands, the change of seasons, and the wonderful setting in which we live. 

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa is continually recognized as a top destination and a top spa in not only North Carolina but the entire country.  October is a perfect time to soak in the beauty of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains while treating yourself to some pampering at the same time.  Click here to learn more about all that Oktoberfest has to offer in Highlands NC.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Are you looking for something to do in Highlands NC this weekend?  You certainly don’t have to look very far.  Perhaps you want to hit some golf balls, tennis balls, or cast a lure, or maybe enjoy some rock n’ roll or tour some of Highlands finest homes.  Then again, you could do a little of all of the above, and so much more.

Enjoy some good old fashioned rock n’ roll this weekend in Highlands NC.  The Performing Arts Center in Highlands will be alive with classic, early rock and roll sounds while the Highlands Male Chorus belts out a variety of hits you are sure to know.  The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, doors open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are $12, call 526-9047 for more information.

Saturday is the day of the highly anticipated Kitchen Tour, a perfect opportunity to see the inside of some of the nicest homes in Highlands NC.  The kitchen is the heart of the home and Saturday is a great time to see new trends, classic designs, and how the kitchen is evolving.  Click here to visit the website for the Highlands Laurel Garden Club, the sponsor of the Kitchen Tour.

There is always something going on in Highlands NC.  Contact us any time to learn more about living in Highlands NC and all that our spectacular area has to offer.  There could be a better time to explore Highlands real estate, where owning a home offers an exceptional lifestyle and a lifetime of memories in the making.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

Mark your calendars for kitchens in Highlands NC.  Saturday, September 24th marks the fabulous Highlands Kitchen Tour, a great time to view some of the areas finest homes and  get inspired by what each kitchen has to offer.

Hosted by the Laurel Garden Club, the Highlands Kitchen Tour will provide access to 7 kitchens in some of the most glorious homes in Highlands North Carolina.  The night before the Kitchen Tour will be an opening reception/patron’s party at the Rainwater estate.  This home is in a stunning setting, offering sweeping views, and of course the kitchen isn’t bad either!

Highlands NC is home to some gorgeous homes and the kitchens that will be available to be seen throughout the tour represent old and new, encompassing a variety of styles and a myriad of designs.

Events like the Kitchen Tour in Highlands NC offer inspiration for anyone considering remodeling a home now or in the future.  Tickets are $50 for the tour and $125 for the patron’s party.  Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.

There is music, music, and more music to enjoy this weekend in Highlands NC.  From a battle of the bands to a string quartet, if you like music you’ll love being in Highlands. 

Friday, August 12th, Friday Night Live takes begins at 5:30 p.m. in downtown Highlands.  Make your way to the Town Square to listen to the bluegrass, mountain ballads, and original music of Mountain Hoo Doo.

Also on Friday is the Battle of the Bands, held at the Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m.  The Linden String Quartet and the Attaca String Quartet will create the magical sounds of Mozart, Walton, and Mendelssohn.

Saturday, August 13th, Highlands Idol will take place at the old gym in the Highlands School.  Showcasing amazing local talent, from bands to solo acts, this is an evening of promising talent that will benefit Relay for Life.

Also on Saturday, in nearby Cashiers, another evening of the Battle of the Bands will be held at the Albert Carlton Library at 5 p.m.  The Linden String Quartet and the Attaca String Quartet will again create the magical sounds of Mozart, Walton, and Mendelssohn.

Sunday, August 14, the Final Gala wraps up the 30th annual Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival. The Martin Lipscomb Performing Arts Center at 5 p.m. will showcase performers that include the Linden Quartet, the Attacca Quartet, Laura Ardan on clarinet, Lea Kibler on flute, Valerie Von Pechy Whitcup on harp, William Ransom on piano, Doug Sommer on bass, and Carl Nitchie playing the bassoon.

Highlands NC offers exposure to a variety of arts, musical, performing, and visual, in a stunning mountain setting.  While special events take place throughout the year the area’s lively arts scene is especially evident during the summer months.  Contact me today to learn more about living in Highlands NC and the unique real estate opportunities that exist here.  As an experienced Highlands REALTOR® I can offer access to all Highlands real estate that is currently listed for sale, as well as information that will help you get to know our fabulous area.

For more information about Highlands and Cashiers North Carolina, and for access to the HighlandsNC/CashiersNC MLS, contact Meadows Mountain Realty today, 866-526-3558 or email us today at info@meadowsmtnrealty.com.