CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Over two months after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, the beloved vacation town of Chimney Rock will reopen for one day only to celebrate Christmas.
The town of Chimney Rock announced it will open for business next Saturday, Dec. 14, to allow visitors to support the town and see the progress that's been made since Helene caused catastrophic damage throughout the region. The special event will offer a day of joy and community engagement that highlights the enduring spirit of the beloved town as it recovers from Helene.
"With Christmas approaching, we would like to invite everyone to join us on a day of celebration, showing the world what a few short months can do when we join together," the town's announcement says. "Come show your support and share the joy as we refresh the hope for a town so dearly loved."
Christmas in Chimney Rock will run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. along Main Street. Activities include pictures and toys with Santa, free Christmas goodies from renovated shops, Christmas music and free food. CityServe is encouraging guests to "adopt a business" by donating to the cause. Every dollar donated will go directly to small businesses in Chimney Rock.
Many areas around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure were unrecognizable after Helene, with floodwaters washing away businesses and homes throughout the region. The Broad River, which runs parallel to the town's main road, overflowed its banks and pushed several buildings into a massive pile of debris.
"I no way expected this level of damage," Mayor Pro Tem April Schick said. "I'm just worried for all of the business owners and how are they going to survive until we reopen. I don't know how people are going to pay their bills until then."