Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center

Festive Winterfest at Tryon Equestrian Center for 2023

Looking for Details on Winterfest at Tryon Equestrian Center & Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland?

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Winterfest At Tryon Equestrian Center

Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) stands as a paradise for equine enthusiasts, those passionate about the outdoors, and anyone embracing an active way of life. With an array of onsite dining options, assorted shops, cozy accommodations, and a host of family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect retreat for leisure and adventure.

Winterfest is a fun event they host during the holiday season, a celebration of holiday magic and equestrian charm. The center is transformed into a winter wonderland.

Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center Village

Winterfest Light Show Entrance:

3580 Pea Ridge Road, Mill Spring, NC 28756
(Use Highway 74, Exit 170)

Christmas Lights Dates and Times:

Light Show is Every Night from November 17 to January 1
Ice Skating is from November 24 to January 1
Winterfest Village is open weekends in December

Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center

Getting to Tryon International Equestrian Center

From Charlotte, NC: Take I-85 S and take exit 10B to US 74 W. Continue for 46 miles, then take exit 170.

From Asheville, NC: Take I-26 E/US 74 E, then take exit 67 towards Columbus/Rutherfordton. Continue for 8 miles on US 74 E and then take exit 170.

From South Carolina: Take I-26 W, then take exit 67 for US 74 E towards Columbus/Tryon. At the roundabout, continue straight to stay on US 74 E, then veer right towards Forest City/Shelby. Drive for 8 miles and take exit 170.

Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center

Tips & Things to Do at Winterfest at Tryon International Equestrian Center

🎄 Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland | Every evening from November 17 to January 1, gather your loved ones for a magical ride through Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland, a drive-thru light extravaganza! Sync your car radio to a soundtrack of festive tunes while you’re surrounded by a sea of twinkling lights. It’s a beloved seasonal ritual that’s sure to dazzle. You can purchase your per-vehicle pass online or upon arrival.

Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center

🎄 Ice Skating | From November 24 to January 1, they invite you to partake in the festive spirit with their ice skating rink. Available Thursdays to Sundays at various times, the rink features themed skating events accompanied by live music to enhance the experience. Skaters can book a one-hour slot with the convenience of included skate rentals, though personal skates are also welcome. The rink is accessible to anyone aged four and above. 

Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center Arena

🎄 Christmas Market | The Christmas Market has passed for the 2023 season, but stay tuned. If it returns in 2024, the public is welcomed to a complimentary holiday shopping experience. This event showcases a variety of local and artisan vendors, offering a perfect opportunity to find unique gifts while supporting local craftsmanship and entrepreneurs. 

Winterfest Village at Tryon International Equestrian Center

🎄 Breakfast with Santa | On select dates, including December 2, 9, 16, & 23, with seating times at 8, 9:30, and 11:30 am, The Ridge at the International Pavilion will feature “Breakfast with Santa.” This festive gathering, running from 8 am to 1 pm, offers a chance to meet Santa and enjoy a sumptuous buffet suitable for both kids and adults. Advance reservations are necessary. Pricing is set at $39 for adults, $18 for children aged 5-14, and free for children four and under.

Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center Santa Sign

🎄 Entertainment in the Winterfest Village | Every Friday to Sunday, 5-9 pm from December 1 through 23, Winterfest Village becomes a festive hub at Tryon International Equestrian Center. It welcomes visitors to capture moments with beloved holiday characters, enjoy live music, and savor delicious treats. With attractions like carousel rides and a variety of shops, it offers enchantment for guests of all ages. No wristband is required for parents accompanying their children. Wristbands for the kids: $10 Fridays & Sundays, $12 Saturdays

Carousel during Winterfest at Tryon International Equestrian Center

Here are some tips to ensure you have a magical and smooth visit:

🎄Dress in layers; you’ll be nice and warm in your vehicle as you drive through the lights, and since Winterfest offers outdoor attractions, pack extra warm gear to ensure you stay toasty while enjoying all the festivities.

🎄Arrive Early: Especially on weekends, arriving early for the drive-through lights can help you avoid the biggest crowds and reduce wait times.

🎄Comfortable Footwear: You’ll likely do a lot of walking in the village, so wear comfortable shoes.

Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Winterfest Tryon International Equestrian Center

Things to Do Near Tryon Equestrian Center

If you are looking for more things to do, here are some great things to check out.

✅ McAdenville, NC “Christmas Town”
Address: McAdenville, NC

McAdenville is a special town that loves Christmas! From December 1st to 26th, when it gets dark, the whole area lights up with tons of colorful lights until 10 p.m. You can see big, bright trees and a beautiful lake with floating trees. Plus, people decorate their houses just for you to see.

Remember to walk on the sidewalks and enjoy all the twinkly lights and music!  You can also choose to drive through the area, but we prefer to get out and walk. McAdenville is about an hour from the Tryon International Equestrian Center near Gastonia, NC.

Lighted Decorated House in Christmas Town USA

✅ Forest City NC’s Downtown Christmas Lights
Address: Main St, Forest City, NC

Step into the festive season in Forest City, NC, as Main Street sparkles with Christmas lights every evening from 5 PM to 11:30 PM, starting November 23, 2023, until January 1, 2024.

Forest City NC Christmas Lights, Giant Ornament

There’s no admission fee to experience the holiday glow as you drive or walk through this charming downtown. In addition, on select nights you can enjoy carriage and hay rides, glide on the synthetic ice rink, and indulge in delightful offerings from local food trucks.

Forest City NC Christmas Lights

✅ Biltmore Christmas
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

Discover the holiday splendor of Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, where the grandeur of the Vanderbilt’s 1895 mansion, with its 250 rooms, is adorned with festive decor. The Biltmore House, set within 8,000 acres of gardens and trails, offers a historical journey and outdoor adventures.

Biltmore Estate Christmas Outside with lights

The holiday season, from November 3, 2023, to January 7, 2024, brings two special experiences: daylight tours and candlelit evenings, each promising a unique glimpse into a bygone era decked in holiday finery. Tickets, required for entry, start at $110, with candlelight evenings slightly higher. Plan ahead to secure your spot at this enchanting estate.

Biltmore Estate Christmas

Visit the Local Wineries

Nestled in the scenic landscape near TIEC, a visit to the local wineries is a must. Mountain Brook Vineyards offers a serene escape with tastings of their exquisite wines. Overmountain Vineyards, with its charming family-run atmosphere, provides a picturesque setting to enjoy their celebrated vintages.

Mountain Brook Vineyards Patio

Parker-Binns Vineyard completes the trio with its welcoming vibe and a delightful selection of wines, perfect for savoring while soaking in the views. Each winery is unique, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich viticultural offerings. We love them all! 

View of the tasting room at Parker Binns

​​Where To Stay near Tryon Equestrian Center 

📍Hampton Inn & Suites Forest City The Hampton Inn & Suites in Forest City is a standout lodging option, praised for its exceptional cleanliness, comfort, and prime location. It boasts an impressive overall guest satisfaction rating of 9.0, reflecting its dedication to quality and service. 

📍Ridge View Cabin with Fireplace – Located just 2.7 miles from TIEC in a gated community, Ridge View Cabin offers a luxurious mountain retreat. It features a well-equipped kitchen, a cozy living space with a gas fireplace, and outdoor areas, including a fire pit. The cabin has two bedrooms, a spacious bathroom, and Wi-Fi. Suitable for up to six guests, with a minimum age requirement of 21 for booking.

📍Serene Mill Spring Getaway w/ Yard & Fire Pit – This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom vacation home is just under a mile from Tryon International Equestrian Center and a brief journey to Lake Lure, making it a prime spot for exploration. It’s a peaceful retreat equipped with all necessities, including a fire pit and free WiFi, and is dog-friendly. Sleep comfortably in the king, queen, or full beds and bunk beds provided.

📍Cottage on Main – Located nearby in Forest City, this apartment offers a two-bedroom cottage within walking distance of the downtown area. It features free WiFi and one bathroom, providing a comfortable stay close to local attractions like the Tryon International Equestrian Center.

Tryon International Equestrian Center: FAQs

📌 How much does it cost to go to Tryon Equestrian Center?
Admission to the Tryon International Equestrian Center, including parking, is free and open to the public for all of their horse shows; they do have special events throughout the year that may have an admission cost, like Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland lights and Winterfest entertainment add-ons

📌 How many arenas does Tryon have?
The facility boasts 1,400 permanent stalls for horses, a total of 13 competition arenas, including an illuminated international arena that can accommodate as many as 12,000 spectators, with VIP seating available for 1,500 guests. Additionally, there is a covered arena that offers seating for 5,000 spectators.

📌 When was the Tryon Equestrian Center built?
The Tryon Resort broke ground in 2014 and had a grand opening in June 2015.  

📌 How many acres is the Tryon Equestrian Center?
The Equestrian Center is located on 1,00 acres. 

Shadrack’s Drive Through Light Show at Tryon International Equestrian Center

Final Thoughts

Winterfest at Tryon International Equestrian Center is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the season’s spirit, offering something for everyone. From the brilliance of the light show to the joy of ice skating, each moment spent here is a memory in the making. 

The center’s blend of equestrian tradition with holiday cheer creates a unique and immersive experience that captures the warmth and excitement of winter. Whether you’re here for the festive attractions, the delicious food, or simply the magical atmosphere, Winterfest is sure to leave you with a heart full of holiday joy and a new tradition to anticipate year after year.

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